Virginia Hamilton Knihy

Virginia Hamilton's Coretta Scott King Honor book is the breathtaking fantasy tale of slaves who possessed ancient magic that enabled them to fly away to freedom. And it is a moving tale of those who did not have the opportunity to “fly” away, who remained slaves with only their imaginations to set them free as they told and retold this tale. Leo and Diane Dillon's powerful illustrations accompany Hamilton's voice as it sings out from the pages with the soaring cadences that echo the story tellers of her childhood as the granddaughter of a fugitive slave. Awards for The People Could Fly collection: A Coretta Scott King Award A Booklist Children’s Editors’ Choice A School Library Journal Best Books of the Year A Horn Book Fanfare An ALA Notable Book An NCTE Teachers’ Choice A New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of the Year

“THE PEOPLE COULD FLY,” the title story in Virginia Hamilton’s prize-winning American Black folktale collection, is a fantasy tale of the slaves who possessed the ancient magic words that enabled them to literally fly away to freedom. And it is a moving tale of those who did not have the opportunity to “fly” away, who remained slaves with only their imaginations to set them free as they told and retold this tale.Leo and Diane Dillon have created powerful new illustrations in full color for every page of this picture book presentation of Virginia Hamilton’s most beloved tale. The author’s original historical note as well as her previously unpublished notes are included.Awards for The People Could Fly A Coretta Scott King AwardA Booklist Children’s Editors’ ChoiceA School Library Journal Best Books of the YearA Horn Book FanfareAn ALA Notable BookAn NCTE Teachers’ ChoiceA New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of the Year

Featuring a captivating retelling of 24 African American folk tales, this collection includes a variety of stories such as animal tales, supernatural narratives, and cautionary tales, alongside inspiring slave tales of freedom. The author's storytelling is engaging and accessible, making these tales enjoyable for readers of all ages. Enhanced by 40 expressive illustrations by the Dillons, this beautifully presented book is a must-have for those interested in rich cultural narratives.

From "girl reporter" to professor of history, Virginia Van der Veer Hamilton has witnessed some of the major events of the 20th century. Her stories of growing up during the Depression and coming of age during World War II evoke warm memories of another time - a time of innocence, a time when people dressed up to go riding in a car, a time when the whole town danced in the streets until midnight to celebrate the return of some soldiers ... a time when two young girls from Birmingham could safely take a train to Miami to catch a glimpse of a national hero, Clark Gable. From Birmingham to Washington, D.C., and back to Birmingham again, Hamilton's essays allow us to travel with her and relive some of the major events and themes of our times: the nation's reaction to the death of FDR, the reminiscences of Hosea Williams on the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, the struggle by women to enter male-dominated professions, and the views of senior citizens and others toward the idea of "retirement."

The narrative centers on two eighth-grade boys in New York, highlighting their contrasting lives—one is a gifted, overweight musician, while the other is a resilient homeless youth. Their journey explores themes of heroism, survival, and the essential connections between people. This compelling story offers a poignant look at friendship and the challenges faced by young individuals in a complex urban environment, making it a notable read for children aged 8-12.

Recognized with multiple prestigious awards, this book explores powerful themes of identity, resilience, and community. It captivates readers through its compelling characters and rich storytelling, shedding light on important social issues. The narrative weaves personal struggles with broader societal challenges, making it both an engaging and thought-provoking read. Its accolades highlight its impact and significance in contemporary literature, appealing to a diverse audience.