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Cara Reese has long been an admirer of children’s books—at Columbia University, she studied children’s lit, and after becoming a teacher, Reese realized just what a children’s book can do. As she told Kirkus Reviews, “I realized that all of these factors connect—the idea that representation matters, that children’s understanding of race is affected by what they see, and the power of a children’s book specifically to teach history.”
With that in mind, Reese wrote her first children’s book: Black Artists Rock! The Cool Kids’ Guide A-Z. Featuring both household names and overlooked figures, each of the 26 Black artists chosen helped shape the art world today.
Using “fantastic images and lyrical language…” and “intricate and gorgeous drawings” (Readers’ Favorite, starred review), Black Artists Rock! is a children’s book that will be enjoyed by all ages. Below, read an excerpt and learn more about Jean-Michel Basquit and Ella Fitzgerald.
Jean-Michel Basquiat
B is for Jean-Michel Basquiat,
A Black painter who crowned himself king,
Splashing colorfully bold masterpieces
Across New York’s street corners and museums.
B is for Jean-Michel Basquiat,
A funky-famous superstar
Painting fast and furious mysteries
Coded in symbols and secrets and clues.
B is for Jean-Michel Basquiat,
Radiant paintings talking back
Kissed by the rays of the sun
The world’s rightfully divine art emperor.
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Ella Fitzgerald
F is for Ella Fitzgerald,
Scatting bouncy songbird notes
Full of light with hop-scotch perfection
Beaming bright.
With sunshine in her mouth.
F is for Ella Fitzgerald,
Impeccable bebop majesty
Delighting fans all over the world
Indisputable First Lady of Jazz.
F is for Ella Fitzgerald,
Friend of Satchmo and The Duke,
Empress of the American Songbook,
Melodic Medicine For the Soul.
Black Artists Rock!
“This beautiful abecedarian features 26 profoundly accomplished creatives, and although the book is specifically crafted for children, adults won’t want to miss out on it…A dynamic celebration with all ages appeal.”
-Kirkus Reviews
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