“Fee, fi, apple fritter, I smell a little critter!” Jack and the Beanstalk has been told and retold many times over the centuries. But Mercer Mayer’s great wit, animated illustrations, and cleverly created flaps—lift them to see the magic beans in the bag and the giant beanstalk outside Jack’s window—enliven this beloved tale as never before.
I am Black / I am Unique / I am the creamy white frost in vanilla ice cream / and the milky smooth brown in a chocolate bar... Using simple poetic language and stunning photographs, Sandra and Myles Pinkney have created a remarkable book of affirmation for African-American children. Photographic portraits and striking descriptions of varied skin tones, hair texture, and eye color convey a strong sense of pride in a unique heritage. A joyous celebration of the rich diversity among African-Americans.
There are lots of goodies today! Check out Ellen's Broom, the perfect children's read and/or gift. Also, Ms. Kelly Starling Lyons joins us to tell us a bit about her writing journey. She even has coloring pages and printables for kids! But don't leave without checking out the giveaway for one lucky US winner.
Ellen always knew the broom resting above the hearth was special. But after it’s announced in church that the marriages of former slaves will be registered, she hears more about why it matters so much. For her mama and papa, who could be sold away at a master's whim and whose union had no legal protection, jumping the broom was a way to show their commitment to being husband and wife. Now, as the whole family travels to the courthouse dressed in their best, Ellen carries the broom with them. With love, ingenuity and pride, she finds a way to celebrate her parents' right to be legally married and remember their past.
Quote:
"Ellen looked around at the parade of strutting families and her parents holding hands . . . She held the broom high. "
Kelly Starling Lyons is a children's book author whose mission is to transform moments, memories and history into stories of discovery. Her books include chapter book, NEATE: Eddie's Ordeal (Just Us Books, 2004), and picture book, One Million Men and Me (Just Us Books, 2007). She has two forthcoming picture books with Penguin/G.P. Putnam's Sons. Ellen's Broom, illustrated by Daniel Minter, will debut on January 5, 2012. Tea Cakes for Tosh, illustrated by E.B. Lewis, will be released that fall.
I'm so grateful that Ms. Lyons took the time to answer a few of my questions!
