Floyd Cooper

Gregory draws Sandy the Lion in the sand on the beach day he and his dad share one summer. Gregory’s father tells the child not to go into the water and not to leave Sandy — but Sandy’s tail is a long one, allowing Gregory to safely discover fascinating beach creatures. Realistic, textured illustrations evoke the place and ideally complement the evocative text.

When Danitra leaves the city for a summer with her family in the country, she and best friend Zuri write to each other about their days. The free verse and softly hued, realistic illustrations convey the warmth of both summer and the girls’ friendship.

Tamika loves everything about her grandpa, especially his expressive face. But one day, when Tamika watches Grandpa rehearsing for a play, she sees a different face, one she has never seen before.

The author recounts her family’s move by train from Oklahoma to California, the “land of milk and honey.”  Evocative language and luxurious illustration create a warm recollection from a child’s perspective.

Miz Berlin tells wonderful stories about how she caught crawdaddies the day the sky rained feathers or about the day the flood rose right to her front door as she and young Mary Alice walk together around the block.

Written by the children in Oklahoma City, this book captures the fear, sadness, and confusion they experienced as they heard about the 1995 bombing of the Federal Building, and the strategies they used to begin the healing process.

Extensive research about a previously unknown African American aviator whose story of perseverance and desire to fly resulted in a handsome, well told biography. Banning crossed the country gaining support and respect along the way. Extensive back matter is included.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, once housed an area called Black Wall Street. Successful African Americans owned and operated business in Greenwood, a section of the city. Without downplaying the horror, author and illustrator combine talents to present this brutal historical event in words and image. Additional resources are included.