Tonya Bolden Knihy

Carol Anderson's White Rage captivated readers, becoming a New York Times bestseller and earning accolades from major publications. It established her as a prominent voice on race issues, leading to invitations to speak to influential groups. This young adult adaptation introduces her insights to a new audience. The book explores the pattern of systemic racist backlash following milestones of progress for black Americans in democracy. It examines five pivotal moments: the end of the Civil War and Reconstruction, which led to Jim Crow laws; the Great Migration, where opportunities were stifled by barriers; the Supreme Court's 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision, which resulted in the closure of public schools in the South; the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965, which were followed by laws disenfranchising African American voters and the War on Drugs targeting black communities; and the election of President Obama, which sparked violence, including the tragic death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, and the subsequent election of Donald Trump. This adaptation features an engaging narrative style, providing teen readers with context for these historical events, along with photographs, archival images, and additional resources.

The biography explores the groundbreaking life of Shirley Chisholm, highlighting her historic achievements as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first Black woman to seek a presidential nomination from a major political party. It delves into her trailblazing career, political activism, and the challenges she faced in a predominantly male and racially biased political landscape, showcasing her enduring impact on American politics and civil rights.

Exploring the critical issue of Black voter suppression, this adaptation presents a thorough historical account that highlights significant events and systemic obstacles faced by Black voters throughout American history. It delves into the socio-political factors that have contributed to disenfranchisement and the ongoing struggle for voting rights, making it a vital resource for understanding the complexities of race and democracy in the United States.

The collection features impactful speeches from pivotal moments in American history, showcasing voices from both powerful leaders and ordinary citizens. Readers can engage with the original texts, which are presented in various formats, highlighting their influence on American culture. Recognized as a Best Book by the Chicago Public Library, this anthology offers insight into the ideas and emotions that have shaped the nation.

This autobiographical picture book by the multiple Grammy Award-winning singer Roberta Flack recounts her childhood in a home surrounded by music and love: it all started with a beat-up piano that her father found in a junkyard, repaired, and painted green. Growing up in a Blue Ridge mountain town, little Roberta didn't have fancy clothes or expensive toys...but she did have music. And she dreamed of having her own piano. When her daddy spies an old, beat-up upright piano in a junkyard, he knows he can make his daughter's dream come true. He brings it home, cleans and tunes it, and paints it a grassy green. And soon the little girl has an instrument to practice on, and a new dream to reach for--one that will make her become a legend in the music industry. Here is a lyrical picture book--perfect for aspiring piano players and singers--that shares an intimate look at Roberta Flack's family and her special connection to music.