WINNER OF THE CALDECOTT MEDAL, THE CORETTA SCOTT KING AWARD, THE KATE GREENAWAY SHADOWER'S CHOICE AWARD AND A NEWBERY HONOR BOOK. This is for the unforgettable. The unafraid. The undefeated. From New York Times bestselling-author Kwame Alexander comes this powerful and important ode to black history: the strength and bravery of everyday people and the grit, passion, and perseverance of some of the world's greatest artists, athletes, and activists. With references to lyrics and lines originally shared by our most celebrated heroes, this poem digs into the not-so-distant past to underline the endurance and spirit of those surviving and thriving in the present. Listen to the powerful poem read by Kwame Alexander himself via an audio link inside the book.

Review: "A powerful tribute to the African-American experience...This book will fill readers with a sense of the wealth and the cost of history." * New York Times *
"A beautiful volume that encourages multiple viewings and further research. With a lengthy roster of accolades and best-seller credits between them, this untouchable duo's book will fly off the shelf." * Booklist, starred review *
"An incredible connector text for young readers eager to graduate to weighty conversations about our yesterday, our now, and our tomorrow" * Kirkus, starred review *
"Alexander's magnificent anthem to the courage and genius of black Americans is paired with stunning portraits by Nelson." * Publishers Weekly, Best Children's and YA Books of 2019 *
"The elegance of the language and the rhythm of the words are married with Kadir Nelson's heart-stoppingly beautiful illustrations and the outcome is an absolutely breathtaking picturebook." * CLPE, Staff Picks 2019 *