ellington was not a street

Teaching Pre K-8, Feb 2004

Celebrate! These great books will enhance culturally-rich Black History month. February's celebration of Black History month usually provides wonderful opportunities to catch up on some great trade books and teaching aides. This year is no exception. ellington was not a street

This 40-page picture book is a reflective tribute to the African American community. The art is drawn from the perspective of a young girl who saw the greats; W.E.B. DuBois, Duke Ellington, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Paul Robeson and others from the fields of music, politics and sports - and it's beautiful.

The importance of the individuals presented positions them as individuals who "changed the world." All of these artists lived and worked at a time when being Black was a tremendous handicap to having their art and skills accepted.

The book was written by Ntozake Shange, award-winning dramatist, and the author of the picture book, Float Like a Butterfly. This is published by Simon & Schuster and is $15.95 at your local bookstore.