Full Book Reviews
Kenyatta's Stone
"Loved this writing and telling the story of children and slavery. Very well written and easy to read and understand. The art really helped give a better picture of Africa and the families that live there. A tragedy of all the suffering needlessly for everyone. I pray that in the future the consciousness of awakening will shift this tragedy. This is why our mother earth, and all the suffering is getting louder and louder to uncover such degradation to people of color and children. Important to dissolve all this hatred and uncover the truth that has been hidden from us for so many, many years. What perfect timing to get this book out into the community for others to read and learn from?" Cheryl Huizar
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"True freedom comes from within
I loved every aspect of this book. The illustrations and the writing connected me to Kenyatta and her desire to be free. I visualized every step of Kenyatta’s journey, because the Author was very descriptive and I went on that journey with her as Kenyatta lost and found her freedom." KBJ
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This is a book about an African girl brought to early America as a slave and how she was able to get back to her family in Africa. I loved it and hope there are many more books like this!" M. Bell
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"Add to your classroom library!
Kenyatta’s Stone's universal themes (such as love of family, moral courage, etc.) form the undercurrent of this heartwarming tale of a little girl living in Africa. It should be a “must read” in schools.
Gaines-Vanderpool is a masterful storyteller who creates tension, develops conflict and builds suspense within the narrative. The emotions she ascribes to each of her characters compels the reader to eagerly turn each page in great anticipation of the next scene. Kenyatta’s Stone is an engaging book for children and adults of all ages. I am looking forward to reading it with my grandsons." Francene Weatherspoon, MAEd, CSUS- Retired Educator
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The first time I read this book, I was overcome by emotions! It's so vividly written that you feel as though you are part of Kenyatta's family - seeing/experiencing her journey and the love expressed by the characters. This book is a MUST read for children and adults alike! I hope there will be a "sequel", because this book just wasn't enough!" S. Baker
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I particularly enjoyed the flow of the story - I didn't put the book down until fully read. Kenyatta being a child, her parents & grandparent all were included in the storyline which makes it interesting for today's children to relate & wonder how this could happen. Not too long & not too detailed as to scare kids but just enough of everything to make one think. I'm buying it for my grandchildren & goddaughter."
M. Hylton
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"A Full Circle!
I've read Kenyatta's Stone 3 times! Once to myself; once to my neighbor's 3 children-ages 7 to 10; once to my friend's granddaughter--age 6. Each time was better than the previous time. So many questions from the kids. Had I not retired, I would've had my 8th grade Language Arts students read it (a major prompt for a discussion and/or writing assignment. Kenyatta's Stone is a wonderful addition to my library." Barbara D
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"Stunning, Heartbreaking And Heartwarming
This beautiful book approaches a difficult subject (slavery) with warmth and care. It is meant as a catalyst for conversations about African American history in elementary grades. A young girl, Kenyatta, and her dog provide a character to identify with at the same time as leaving room for students to ask questions. The colors and presentation also draw one in. I highly recommend this book for home, library or classroom!" E. Dowey
Our Black Fathers: Brave, Bold and Beautiful
This was a side of our black fathers that rarely got seen. Outstanding reading." Pendevu
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"Black Dads You Don't Hear About
Our Black Fathers: Brave, Bold & Beautiful" tells the story of Black men who have, throughout the ages, loved, provided for and protected their families. The special relationship between these Black fathers and their children is woven through every story. Whether he was a single dad, a man who stepped up to the plate when a "biological" father wasn't available or partnered with a loving woman as co-parent, the reader gets to know Black fathers in a way that won't happen on the Six o'clock news. An important read for Black men and women. To those wounded by a Black father who wasn't available, able, or willing to parent, "Our Black Fathers" provides the opportunity for healing." La Rhonda Crosby Johnson
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Our Black Fathers: Brave, Bold & Beautiful what a testament to the positive side of BLACK MEN! A side not so often seen nor displayed for the public's viewing. The title itself had me but when I read the stories I was really touched, so much so that this became the catalyst for Turning Pages Book Club Father's Day event. All I can say is IT'S ABOUT TIME!" D. Burton-Johnson
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These are the untold stories of the REAL side of Black men that often gets lost in the overwhelming midst of negative images. The book was both entertaining and heartwarming! The authors should be commended for their efforts of showing another side of the true father's that have helped shape the lives of so many Black families." R.L. Fincher
Our Black Mothers: Brave, Bold and Beautiful
"Love the book...I have met the authors...great reading as to how mothers survived the hardships of life, but still made a positive influence on their daughters..." Pookie Porker
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“This collection of writings deserves to be widely read… an introduction to remarkable women, ordinary yet extraordinary such as my mother, Brave Bold and Beautiful!” Donna A. Waddell, UFCW Local 400 Central Southwest Regional Director