Frank Morrison

Michaela DePrince and her adoptive mother share Michaela’s story of how her dream to become a professional dancer came true. Orphaned in Sierra Leone’s ongoing war, Michaela and her best friend came to the United States and were adopted. Her story is told through personal narrative and paintings punctuated by actual photographs.

On a sunny day, a child and her mother go for a walk in the park. The rhythm the girl hears in her head is all around, bringing an entire community together. Infectious language repeats (SNAP SNAP; STOMP STOMP), accompanied by full-color double- page spreads that will surely be read — and voiced — many times.

CJ’s uncle, a well known jazz musician, has lost his signature hat and sends the boy out to locate it. CJ searches Harlem finding something better than the beret for the magazine photographer to snap. Animated illustrations and an author’s note take a memorable look at Harlem and musicians of the mid 1950s.

Wilma Rudolph was going to be in a parade in Clarksville, TN, after she won gold in the 1960 Summer Olympics. Alta, herself a runner, is inspired by Wilma but so is the new girl in town with the flashy new shoes. The girls put their competition aside ultimately finding friendship and a front row seat and a smile from Wilma at the parade. An author’s note about the Olympian is sure to inspire young readers to learn more about Rudolph. 

So you think rap is modern? Well, it is, but its genesis began long ago! Discover where rap started in this rhythmic, clearly sourced, and stunningly illustrated poetic introduction to it.