Deze auteur put inspiratie uit de omgeving waarin hij opgroeide, waarbij zijn werken vaak het leven en de uitdagingen van zijn geboorteplaats weergeven. In zijn verhalen richt hij zich op jongeren en hun complexe relaties, met name met familie. Zijn personages zijn vaak geïnspireerd door echte mensen uit zijn leven, waaronder zijn grootvaders, wier beroepen en interesses worden weerspiegeld in zijn literaire figuren. De stijl van de auteur wordt gekenmerkt door een diep begrip van jeugdervaringen en het vermogen om deze met authenticiteit en emotie weer te geven.
Set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement, this story follows an unforgettable family on a transformative road trip. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this special edition not only honors the original narrative but also includes bonus content, making it an ideal gift for readers interested in history and family dynamics.
The dramatic and unforgettable story of a girl and a family caught up in the turbulent days of the Depression from Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott Kind Award-winner Christopher Paul Curtis. "We are a family on a journey to a place called wonderful." This is the motto of Deza Malone's family, but the road is getting rocky. Deza is the smartest girl in her class, singled out by teachers for a special path in life. But the Great Depression hit Gary, Indiana hard, and there are no jobs for Black men. When her beloved father leaves to find work, Deza, Mother, and her older brother Jimmie go in search of him, and end up in a Hooverville outside Flint, Michigan. While Jimmie's beautiful voice inspires him to leave the camp to be a performer, Deza and Mother continue on, clinging to the hope that they will find Father. The twists and turns of the Malone's journey reveal not only the devastation of the Depression but also the enduring strength of family bonds and the mighty heart of young Deza Malone.
A young boy navigates the challenges of growing up amidst the harsh realities of history, showcasing his determination to do what is right. The narrative blends humor and heartfelt moments, reflecting the author's signature style. Through this journey, the protagonist confronts significant moral dilemmas, offering readers a poignant exploration of resilience and integrity in the face of adversity.
Twelve-year-old Charlie is down on his luck: His dad just died, the share crops are dry, and Cap'n Buck -- the most fearsome man in Possum Moan, South Carolina -- has come to collect a debt. Fearing for his life, Charlie strikes a deal with Cap'n Buck and agrees to track down some folks accused of stealing from the cap'n and his boss. It's not too bad of a bargain for Charlie... until he comes face-to-face with the fugitives and discovers their true identities. Torn between his guilty conscience and his survival instinct, Charlie needs to figure out his next move -- and soon. It's only a matter of time before Cap'n Buck catches on...
The ordinary interactions and everyday routines of the Watson, an African American Family living in Flint, Michigan, are drastically changed after they go to visit Grandma in Alabama in the summer of 1963.
Insights of a 1960s Cunard entertainments officer into the history of life aboard the Cunard liners
The story follows Steven and his best friend Russell as they embark on new adventures together, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth. Their bond is tested through various challenges, leading to exciting and heartfelt moments that highlight their unique personalities and the strength of their relationship. As they navigate life's ups and downs, readers are taken on a journey filled with humor and valuable life lessons.
Set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement, this story follows an unforgettable family on a transformative road trip. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the narrative highlights significant historical events while exploring themes of unity, resilience, and the quest for justice. The family's journey not only deepens their bonds but also places them at the heart of pivotal moments in history, making it a poignant reflection on the struggles and triumphs of the era.
Set in a settlement of runaway slaves, an eleven-year-old boy named Elijah, the first free child born in Buxton, struggles with his identity and the expectations placed upon him. Often seen as fragile and talkative, he faces a turning point when a former slave steals money intended to free his friend's family. Tasked with retrieving the stolen funds, Elijah embarks on a perilous journey that challenges his fears and could transform him into a hero, provided he can muster the courage to return home.
It's 1936, in Flint, Michigan. Times may be hard, and ten-year-old Bud may be a motherless boy on the run, but Bud's got a few things going for him:He has his own suitcase full of special things.He's the author of Bud Caldwell's Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself.His momma never told him who his father was, but she left a clue: flyers advertising Herman E. Calloway and his famous band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression!!!!!!Bud's got an idea that those flyers will lead him to his father. Once he decides to hit the road and find this mystery man, nothing can stop him--not hunger, not fear, not vampires, not even Herman E. Calloway himself.