(2) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. In early-twentieth-century Birmingham, Alabama, fictional African American boy Frank can't visit Miss Fancy, a real-life circus elephant who retired to nearby Avondale Park: "NO COLORED ALLOWED." But then Miss Fancy--a known escape artist--takes herself on a chaotic, funny walk through Frank's neighborhood. Paintings are lush and supple, with Frank's emotions made poignant and clear. A window into the Jim Crow South and a compelling tale.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2019

(2) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. In 1837, Lewis, who was born into slavery, became the first African American blacksmith in Chattanooga, Tennessee--and he didn't stop working until he was able to buy the freedom of all his family members. Hubbard's straightforward yet lyrical narrative is effectively illuminated with descriptive passages. Rendered in smoothly textured acrylics, Holyfield's art, with its characteristically elongated images, dramatically conveys a sense of passion and purpose. Bib.

Reviewer: Pauletta Brown Bracy | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2018

(2) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. Nolan's straightforward biography of the "Queen of Gospel" focuses on Jackson's youth, path to stardom, and determination to remain true to herself. Jackson pursues her dream despite economic and familial obstacles (racism is addressed only in an appended timeline). Holyfield's dramatic acrylic portraiture gives the subject reverential treatment; the final spread of Jackson's performance preceding King's "I Have a Dream" speech is an apt ending.

Reviewer: Claire E. Gross | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2015

(2) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. Alex asks Miz Pettway why a mule, Belle, is allowed to eat collards from her garden. Turns out Belle is a civil rights hero who helped transport African Americans to vote; she also pulled the wagon holding Dr. King's coffin through the streets of Atlanta. Soft acrylics, textured to look antiqued, are effective in illustrating this little-known true story of the civil rights movement.

Reviewer: Robin L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2011

(3) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield. This story is based on the 1932 flight of James Banning and Thomas Allen, the first African Americans to fly across America. Bildner's tale touches on some of the highs and lows of the journey, including the kindness of people they meet along the way. Holyfield's richly hued and well-shaded acrylic paintings show Banning and Allen taking to the skies.

Reviewer: Juliet S. King

(3) K-3 Illustrated by John Holyfield & John Holyfield. Emma longs for a store-bought book, but in her migrant farm family any extra money goes in the hard-times jar. Although she knows it isn't allowed, Emma takes home books from school, and Mama makes her tell her teacher--the hardest thing Emma's ever done. Mama rewards her with quarters from the hard-times jar. The moving story, based on the author's own childhood, is accompanied by rich, lively paintings.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley