“Framing the figure’s musical stylings as an outgrowth of community and place, Pinkney Barlow smartly uses lively onomatopoeia and crisp, textured collage art to layer the origins of the subject’s sound onto every page.”

“The formative childhood years of Black American music legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe takes center stage in this pitch-perfect picture-book biography...This upbeat, harmonious portrait of the “Godmother of Rock and Roll” as a child hits all the right notes.”

“Pinkney Barlow’s whimsical and expressive illustrations... convey the playful and joyous occasion as well as the family’s unwavering commitment to each other. Small details in the illustrations, such as Keyana’s hair supplies (e.g., spray bottle and sleeping bonnet) and choice of hairstyles, offer a welcome layer of authenticity to this celebration of a carefree childhood.”

“This book is a beauty to behold, with each scene presenting several thoughtful details. Young readers starting to learn from mistakes or relinquish control over situations will benefit from Keyana’s story...”

“For all those who are never found without a book at recess.”

“Using emotionally astute prose and collage art that resembles a personal scrapbook with crayon-textured sketches, debut author David-Sax and Pinkney Barlow (The Real Santa) honor their protagonist’s rich interiority, never minimizing Nicky’s pain or yearning, nor her preference for books and (some) solitude.”

““Redd’s representation of a Black family during the holidays radiates pride in self-identity, while Barlow’s cozy mixed-media illustrations conjure the wonder of the season in this welcome, resonant tale.” ”

““This heartwarming depiction of a loving Black family experiencing a beloved holiday is a delight to behold and is just what many have been waiting for.””

“Barlow’s illustrations, created digitally with handmade watercolor textures, provide an engaging visual divide between the fantastical dream space and the warmth of home through layers of soft color and light.”

“This representation of a Black family and transgender child shines with joy and affirmation... A triumphant declaration of love and identity.”

“Readers will be rooting for Penelope from the first page to the last.”

“Engaging, collage-style art augments the text, with speech bubbles, archival family photographs, and Barlow’s child-friendly illustrations. Concurrently accessible and intimate, this book will both inform readers and inspire them to reach for the stars.”

“A beautiful story of love and kinship, so needed for the many children living apart from their nuclear families.”