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Virginia Hamilton’s African American folktale is often considered her most beloved story. It tells that long ago in Africa, some of the people were able to fly with magic. As the African people were taken to America as slaves, they began to forget how to fly.
Only one old man remembered the magic words. He began to whisper the words to each slave, one by one, and they rose into the air and flew to their freedom.
Leo and Diane Dillon illustrate this vision of Hamilton’s story with striking portraits and emblematic scenes. The illustrations alone are moving and able to stand on their own. The package includes a CD with a narration by Hamilton and James Earl Jones. As if the story itself were not remarkable enough, this picture book version only adds more depth and strength to the folktale. Just say these three words again, James Earl Jones.
Hamilton earned many awards and distinctions in her career, including being the first black author to be awarded the Newberry Medal. The People Could Fly also earned the Coretta Scott King Award.
The Dillons are both multiple award-winners as well. The 1970s were the couple’s heyday as they created some of the most beautiful children’s books of the time. In 1997, they were inducted into the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame.
The People Could Fly is certainly a labor of love completed by a collection of legendary artists. This is a different kind of children’s book. Something special.
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The People Could Fly