Tate creates both fiction and nonfiction picture books, with a focus on the biographies of little-known historical figures.

[1] He co-founded the Brown Bookshelf, a blog designed to push the awareness of African Americans writing and illustrating books for young people.

[2] Tate began his career as an illustrator with Say Hey: A Song of Willie Mays (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2000), written by Peter Mandel.

[10][11] A review in the School Library Journal called the book "A lovely introduction to an inspirational American poet.

KIDZ is a line of juvenile bed and bathroom products including wallpaper, light switches, wall art and drawer knobs.

[23] Tate speaks at schools,[24] public libraries and writing conferences, including the Vermont College of Fine Arts;[25] Texas Writer’s League; Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators; Pathways to Literacy Conferences(International Institute of Literacy Learning).