About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is hesitant to share their own stories or feels like their personal background is too ordinary to be interesting. Set during the vibrant Harlem Renaissance, this historical fiction follows Lilly Belle as she leaves her rural home for a summer writers workshop in the city. Guided by the real-life legend Zora Neale Hurston, Lilly Belle discovers that her voice has power and her heritage is a source of strength. This is an excellent choice for children ages 8 to 12 who are exploring their creative identities or learning about Black history. It offers a gentle but profound exploration of self-confidence and the importance of preserving oral traditions through literature.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book depicts some of the realities of segregation in the 1920s, including limited opportunities and separate facilities. While these are presented realistically, the overall tone is hopeful and emphasizes the community's resilience and creativity. It is entirely secular, focusing on the cultural and literary movements of the era.
