Pinkney tells the stories of ten African American women — from Soujourner Truth to Rosa Parks — who faced prejudice and oppression with amazing courage and grace. In the end, all ten women paved the way for changes in the lives of future generations.
African Americans
For centuries, Africans brought to America as slaves and their descendents who were born into slavery were forced to keep their stories alive by telling them aloud. If slaves were caught writing–or teaching others–they were punished by law. Going to school was illegal. This Black History Month (February), in honor of African American storytellers of the past, celebrate today’s black authors whose words create powerful and beautiful literature. At the same time, be sure to take a closer look at the work of black illustrators whose art enhances the printed page. In this column, you’ll find a selection of newly published books and old favorites, written and/or illustrated by black authors and artists. These are only a sampling of titles to share with students. Look in your library for scores of others.
Let it Shine: Three Favorite Spirituals
With a kaleidoscope of color and cut paper, Hans Christian Anderson Award nominee and two-time Coretta Scott King Award winner Ashley Bryan celebrates three favorite spirituals: “This Little Light of Mine,” “Oh, When the Saints Go Marching In,” and “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” The power of these beloved songs simply emanates through his joyous interpretations. Come, sing, and celebrate!
Malcolm X: A Fire Burning Brightly
Another important black leader who struggled for civil rights is Malcolm X. Historic quotes, rich prose, and striking paintings make this picture biography a gem–and one that underscores the possibility of overcoming bad times.
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters
In this fairy tale, the king is searching for a worthy and beautiful wife. Mufaro has two daughters. Nyasha is beautiful and kind. Manyara, while physically attractive, is mean-spirited. Steptoe’s paintings are so light and rich in texture that this picture book should be read aloud to small groups so that each child can clearly see the art.
My Rows and Piles of Coins
After reading about Libby who learns a valuable lesson, share this book about Saruni who also learns something important. Although his mother encourages him to spend the money she gives him on the tempting things in the market, Saruni keeps his coins safely in his pocket. He plans on surprising her by saving up money to buy his own bicycle to use to help her at the market. Saruni soon discovers that coins, even a big pile of them, don’t add up fast enough to buy a bike. Mollel’s story of a generous boy, who finally gets his wish, gives young readers a lesson in perseverance, patience–and math!
Portraits of African-American Heroes
Here, ideal for African-American History Month, is a stunningly beautiful book consisting of portraits-in pictures and words-of twenty outstanding African-Americans. The individuals range from historical to contemporary figures, such as the dancer Judith Jamison, and represent diverse fields of endeavor, from the law (Supreme Court justice Thurgood Marshall) to athletics, science, and more. For each individual, there is a three-page biography by the noted author Tonya Bolden and a striking black-and-white portrait that captures not only the subject’s likeness but is a work of art in itself. A book to inspire, to teach, or to display, with its large trim size and striking design, it is as handsome as it is important.
Sweet Words So Brave: The Story of African American Literature
This is a compelling chronicle about black American writers. It’s told by a man to his granddaughter after she says, “Please tell me a story. Write it down so I can put it in my pocket and carry it around. Tell me about the people from Africa who came before me.” Bold oil paintings and inspiring quotes tell the history of African American storytellers, writers, and orators beginning with slaves. Featured authors range from Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet, to Toni Morrison, the first African American to win the Nobel Prize for literature.
The Egypt Game
The first time Melanie Ross meets April Hall, she’s not sure they’ll have anything in common. But she soon discovers that they both love anything to do with ancient Egypt. When they stumble upon a deserted storage yard behind the A-Z Antiques and Curio Shop, Melanie and April decide it’s the perfect spot for Egypt Game. Before long there are six Egyptians instead of two. After school and on weekends they all meet to wear costumes, hold ceremonies, and work on their secret code. Everyone thinks it’s just a game, until strange things begin happening to the players. Has the Egypt Game gone too far?
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