My New book is Mystery of the Dark Tower an American Girl History Mystery. This is the story of Bessie Carol Coulter a twelve year old girl who unravels a mystery and helps her family in 1928, Harlem, New York. 

White Socks Only

Chosen as "Best Pick of List by American Booksellers Association,"  "Smithsonian Notable Children's Book,"  "Publisher's Weekly 1996 Cuffie Award"

This book is a story about a little girl who sneaks into town to fry an egg on the sidewalk. While she's there she drinks from a "whites only" water fountain and thus begins a transforming experience for her and the town.  

Click the movie camera to see information on White Socks Only Live Action Film

The Glass Bottle Tree

Selected "Parents Choice Honor Book"  and "Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies"

This story is about a little girl who has been taught by her grandmother who is raising her that the spirits of her ancestors live in a tree in the yard. The spirits are contained by glass bottles until some mean old states folk come to take the little girl away. This is a story about non-traditional families. Click the picture to see a larger view. And go here to see some photos of real "glass bottle trees." 

To Be a Drum

"Stepping Stone Honor Award," "1999 Children's Best Book of the Year," "Wake County Public Schools Reader's Choice List

Two young children listen to their father tell them the story of the drum being taken away from African's once they were enslaved in America. The story invites all children to become drums, an instrument of peace and love. *This illustrator has spectacular art here. She actually used pieces of her Great Aunt's quilt made while she was enslaved in Georgia for the clothes on these three dimensional people. Not only that Aminah is probably one of the most dedicated, incredibly talented and visionary artist I've ever met. And to think I can now consider among my dearest friends. I truly love her and if you are fortunate enough to meet her I say run for the chance!

The Foot Warmer and the Crow

Chosen "Children's Book of the Year" and "Notable Children's Book in the Field of Social Studies"

A story of an enslaved man who tricks the slave master in order to gain his freedom. BOO HOO This book is going out of print so if you see a copy I suggest you get it. Daniel Minter's art work is worth a mint in this book. Ask Bill Gates!

The Riches of Osceola McCarty

Winner of "Carter G. Woodson Honor Book" and "Society of School Librarians International Honor Book." Chosen for "Children's Literature Top Choice List," "Texas Blue Bonnet List," "Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List," Smithsonian Notable Children's Book.

The story of the washer woman who gave her life savings to the University of Southern Mississippi and has received top honors all over the world. This book also contains a savings diary and resources for young children to learn to save. In addition apart of the proceeds of this book goes to Miss McCarty's endowment at the University to aid students in their pursuit of education. *Another one of Daniel Minter's masterpieces.