Yusuf Ali El began publishing in 1973 with a compilation of his poetry, One Room Shack. Since then he has published some 19 titles, among them, 8 books of love poetry, a motivating self-help manual, 5 compilations of Chicago area poets, and 5 children’s books.
Yusuf says, "A culturally engaging children's book is the greatest toy a child can own." His current books are My Father Knows, Thank You & Please, Raw Tears, How To Feel Good About Yourself, One Room Shack, Ryme Tyme for Growing Minds, and O Woman. Yusuf writes what he feels; he hopes you feel what he writes. He is a powerful orator and is available for Spoken Word recitals and Motivational Speaking engagements. He presents poetry appreciation and writing workshops for all grades and ages, pre-K to senior citizen groups.