When you looked at your summer reading log, did you recognize the artistic style of Brian Pinkney? He is an award-winning illustrator with two Caldecott Honors, four Coretta Scott King Honors, and a Coretta Scott King Award. He lives in Brooklyn, New York with his wife (and collaborator) Andrea Davis Pinkney and their two children. He is also the son of another amazing illustrator, Jerry Pinkney. Find Brian's books at Hoover Public Library and add them to you summer reading list! Here's a small sampling of what you'll find.
Alvin Ailey by Andrea Davis Pinkney
JB AIL
Describes the life, dancing, and choreography of Alvin Ailey, who created his own modern dance company to explore the black experience.
Cendrillon : A Caribbean Cinderella by Robert D. San Souci
J 398.2 CIN
A Creole variant of the familiar Cinderella tale set in the Caribbean and narrated by the godmother who helps Cendrillon find true love.
Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra by Andrea Davis Pinkney
JB ELL
A brief recounting of the career of this jazz musician and composer who, along with his orchestra, created music that was beyond category.
Ella Fitzgerald : The Tale of a Vocal Virtuosa by Andrea Davis Pinkney
JB FIT
A brief recounting of the career of this jazz musician in the voice of "Scat Cat Monroe."
Hush, Little Baby by J. Brian Pinkney
E 782.4215 PIN
An illustrated version of the traditional folk song in which a father promises the world to his restless baby daughter.
Let's Clap, Jump, Sing, & Shout; Dance, Spin, and Turn It Out! : Games, Songs, and Stories from an African American Childhood collected by Patricia C. McKissack
J 305.896 MCK
Find a partner for hand claps such as "Eenie, Meenie, Sassafreeny," or form a circle for games like "Little Sally Walker." Gather as a family to sing well-loved songs like "Amazing Grace" and "Oh, Freedom," or to read aloud the poetry of such African American luminaries as Langston Hughes, James Weldon Johnson, and Paul Laurence Dunbar. And snuggle down to enjoy classic stories retold by the author, including Aesop's fables and tales featuring Br'er Rabbit and Anansi the Spider.
Martin & Mahalia: His Words, Her Song by Andrea Davis Pinkney
JB KIN
On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and his strong voice and powerful message were joined and lifted in song by world-renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. It was a moment that changed the course of history and is imprinted in minds forever.
Max Found Two Sticks by J. Brian Pinkney
E PIN
Although he doesn't feel like talking, a young boy responds to questions by drumming on various objects, including a bucket, hat boxes, and garbage cans.
