Finding Cornerstone Stories: Uncovering Inspiration in Your Family’s History
by André Kearns

To be notified as soon as the title is available for sale, please fill out the form on this page. Book release will be in September 2026.

Finding Cornerstone Stories  reveals tales of Black entrepreneurship and resilience from slavery to leadership through the family tree of author André Kearns. Presented as illustrated essays, the book provides inspiration on every page as the author offers his personal stories and practical guidance for readers to conduct genealogical research and discover their own family histories. 

Finding Cornerstones Stories-web

Praise for André Kearns’s  Finding Cornerstone Stories

André Kearns’s Finding Cornerstone Stories is the blueprint and practical guide genealogists have needed to transform the raw material of family trees, treasured photographs, archival documents, yellowing newspaper clippings, and DNA tests into compelling narratives. Just in time for the nation’s 250th, he traces the journey of a thoroughly American family from his African ancestors’ arrival in Virginia in the early 1600s through generations of accomplished relatives whose contributions continue to enrich their communities. 
—A’Lelia Bundles, author of On Her Own Ground and Joy Goddess

Through rigorous research and deeply personal storytelling, André Kearns shows how Black family history can illuminate the broader American experience. Finding Cornerstone Stories inspires readers to uncover the resilience, humanity, and achievements of earlier generations, reminding us that genealogy is not merely about names and dates but about preserving stories that deserve to be remembered and shared. 
—Paul Heinegg, author of Free African Americans of North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina 

Our stories are sacred. They connect us to those who came before us and help illuminate the path for those who will come after us. In Finding Cornerstone Stories, André Kearns offers a compelling invitation to discover the wisdom, resilience, and inspiration hidden within our own family histories. 
—Rev. Thomas L. Bowen, General Secretary, Progressive National Baptist Convention

 

Save the Date

Boston Book Launch

American Ancestors celebrates the launch of "Finding Cornerstone Stories: Uncovering Inspiration in Your Family's History" with a hybrid talk featuring author André Kearns, followed by a book sale and signing.

Friday, October 16, 2026, 5:00–6:30 pm ET
American Ancestors' Family Heritage Experience, 97 Newbury Street, Boston, and online (hybrid event)

Admission is free. Registration will be live shortly at americanancestors.org/events.