Washington Avenue Press is an independent publishing house built at the intersection of culture, craft, and community. We publish stories with intention; fiction and nonfiction, children’s books and adult titles that are rooted in strong storytelling and professional execution.

We believe powerful stories deserve structure, ownership, and reach. Our work extends beyond the page and into classrooms, bookstores, and communities, where literature becomes conversation and impact.

Our catalog includes children’s chapter books, literary and commercial fiction, memoir, poetry, cultural commentary, and emerging voices across genres. If the story is strong, we build it. 

James A. Freeman, professionally known as Freezy the Barber, is the Founder and Executive Publisher of Washington Avenue Press LLC, a creative entrepreneur, author, stand-up comedian, and dedicated youth literacy advocate committed to helping young people discover the power of their own ideas.

A lifelong storyteller with deep roots in community engagement, James built Washington Avenue Press to create meaningful books and opportunities that inspire confidence, imagination, and ownership through literacy. His work is driven by the belief that every child has stories worth telling and thoughts worth developing.

Beyond publishing, James is the creator of The Thought Bubble Academy, a youth-centered program that uses assemblies, literacy workshops, creative writing experiences, and motivational programming to help children understand that their lives, memories, and ideas can become real stories. Through these experiences, students are encouraged to think boldly, express themselves clearly, and see reading and writing as tools for empowerment.

James has always been a passionate advocate for children, families, and public education. As a parent, school volunteer, and community leader, he has consistently supported efforts that strengthen educational opportunities for students, particularly those in underserved communities. Whether attending school board meetings, speaking on behalf of students and families, volunteering in schools, or collaborating with educators and administrators, James believes meaningful change happens when community members actively show up, participate, and invest in the success of young people. His advocacy is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

James is also the visionary behind the Alma Mae Mack Youth Ink Initiative, a creative writing contest designed for elementary students that gives children opportunities to become published young authors while celebrating creativity, effort, and self-expression.

As a stand-up comedian and live performer, James uses humor, storytelling, timing, and authenticity to connect with audiences of all ages. His comedy background strengthens his public speaking presence, allowing him to engage students, energize school assemblies, and communicate meaningful messages in ways that are memorable, relatable, and uplifting.

Known for his warm personality, humor, authenticity, and ability to connect with young people, James brings a unique perspective shaped by entrepreneurship, fatherhood, education advocacy, decades in the barbershop, and years of real-world communication through both conversation and performance.

Whether in a school assembly, community event, on stage performing comedy, in the barbershop, or behind the scenes building new ideas, James A. Freeman’s mission will always be to help others recognize their value, sharpen their voice, and believe in what they are capable of becoming.

Washington Avenue Press exists to publish meaningful work with structure, ownership, and cultural awareness. We are committed to developing strong manuscripts, amplifying authentic voices, and building literature that lives beyond the page.

We believe in independent publishing with standards. We believe in stories that connect across classrooms, communities, and generations. We believe authors deserve both creative control and professional execution.