In a powerful introduction the compiler/artist writes about the way African creativity has sustained the people in the past and how "it still flows - seeking, searching for new ways to connect the ancient with the new, the young with the old, the unborn with the ancestors." Feelings reminds readers about being "part of a collective that shares a common history and future." A stunning 9 3/4" by 10 5/8" volume melds striking art with 13 inspiring poems by Maya Angelou, Lucille Clifton, Alexis De Veaux, Mari Evans, Darryl Holmes, Langston Hughes, Rashidah Ismaili, Haki R. Madhubuti, Walter Dean Myers, Mwatabu Okantah, Eugene B. Redmond, Askia M. Touré and Margaret Walker. Feelings' process for creating the full-color illustrations done in mixed media is explained in detail; they originated with sketches made in Ghana and Senegal, West Africa; Guyana, South America; and in the United States. Biographical paragraphs about each poet appear at the end of this splendid volume. (Age 9 and older)

A stunning oversize volume melds striking art with thirteen inspiring poems by Maya Angelou, Lucille Clifton, Alexis De Veaux, Mari Evans, Darryl Holmes, Langston Hughes, Rashidah Ismaili, Haki R. Madhubuti, Walter Dean Myers, Mwatabu Okantah, Eugene B. Redmond, Askia M. Touré and Margaret Walker. Full-color illustrations done in mixed media originated with sketches made in Ghana and Senegal, West Africa; in Guyana, South America; and in the United States. Biographical paragraphs about each poet round out this splendid picture book that emphasizes the way African creativity has sustained people in the past and continues to connect "the ancient with the new, the young with the old, the unborn with the ancestors."

"The selections are uniformly uplifting, with affirming messages about the heritage, strength and dreams of African Americans."—Publishers Weekly

In this compelling collection of words and pictures, the voices of thirteen major poets, including Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes, and Walter Dean Myers, rise in response to the dazzling vistas and emotionally vivid portraits of award-winning artist Tom Feelings. A unique and moving collaboration that celebrates the sustaining spirit of African creativity.