Author Profile
Patricia C. Mckissack
9 Books
Patricia C. McKissack was a prolific author of children's literature who championed the stories and history of African Americans. Her extensive body of work includes historical fiction, biographies, and vibrant picture books like Mirandy and Brother Wind and Flossie and the Fox. She frequently collaborated with her husband, Fredrick McKissack, to research and bring rich historical narratives to young readers. Her storytelling often drew heavily upon folklore, oral traditions, and meticulous historical research. She left behind a powerful legacy of books that educate and inspire children everywhere.
Mirandy has her sights set on winning the upcoming cake walk dance, and she knows exactly who she wants for her partner. She is determined to catch Brother Wind himself! Despite the advice and tricks offered by her friends and neighbors, Brother Wind keeps slipping right through her fingers. Will she be able to capture the wind in time for the big event? This lively and energetic story captures the spirit of a young girl who refuses to give up on her dreams. Filled with vibrant charm and dancing, it is a joyful celebration of determination and community.
6-8 Years
38 Pages
In a 1950s southern town filled with restrictive signs and unfair rules, young Tricia Ann knows of one magnificent place where everyone is welcome. Bursting with independence, she begs to take the bus downtown all by herself to reach her favorite spot. The journey is not easy. Along the way, she is forced to sit in the back of the bus and faces painful reminders of segregation at every turn. But guided by her grandmother's empowering words and the kindness of friends she meets along the way, Tricia Ann walks with her head held high. This deeply moving story celebrates dignity, courage, and the joyous freedom found inside a public library.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
40 Pages
For over a hundred years, the women of Gee's Bend have gathered around the quilting frame. Mothers, daughters, and grandmothers have stitched their memories, songs, and hopes into beautiful masterpieces of color and design. Now, it is time for Baby Girl to take her place at the frame and add her own piece to the puzzle. As she pulls her thread through the cloth, she learns the rich history of her ancestors and their long struggle for freedom and justice. This beautifully poetic story stitches together family traditions and historical events, wrapping you in the warmth of a remarkable community.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
49 Pages
Christmas is always a special time in Nella's house, even during the hard years of the Great Depression when gifts from Santa are rare. This year, all Nella and her two sisters want is the beautiful, eyelash-fluttering Baby Betty doll. When Christmas morning arrives and the magnificent doll is actually waiting for them, Nella quickly claims Baby Betty as her own. But she soon realizes that playing with the best toy in the world is not nearly as much fun when you are playing all by yourself. This heartwarming holiday story captures the true spirit of Christmas and the joy of sharing with the people you love.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
41 Pages
Misery loves company, but compassion brings people together. James Otis and his Mama have been having a hard time lately, but they still count their blessings. When their church announces that the Temple family has lost everything in a devastating fire, the congregation decides to create a love box filled with useful gifts. James wants to contribute, but he struggles to figure out what a boy with nothing can possibly give. This touching story reveals the true meaning of generosity. It shows how the smallest, most heartfelt gifts can make the biggest difference in the lives of others.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
41 Pages
Flossie Finley is a bold and clever little girl who is not easily scared. When she is trusted to deliver a basket of fresh eggs across the woods, she is warned about a notorious, egg-stealing fox on the prowl. Sure enough, she soon runs into the smooth-talking animal. But instead of running away in fear, Flossie simply refuses to believe he is a fox at all! She demands that he prove his identity, outsmarting the trickster at every turn. This charming and funny story is a delightful battle of wits that proves courage and quick thinking can defeat even the craftiest of villains.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Little David Earl never needs a calendar to know what day of the week it is. He just looks at the snappy and clean apron his mother, Ma Dear, is wearing. A blue apron means it is Monday and time for washing, while a sunshine yellow apron means it is Tuesday for ironing. Every day brings a new color and a new chore, right up until Sunday, when the aprons are put away and the two of them can enjoy a special day of rest together. This warm and loving story offers a beautiful glimpse into the daily routine of a hardworking mother and her devoted son.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
In a beautiful village in West Africa, a loving father raises his young son with care and tradition. But their world is shattered when the boy is taken away and sold into slavery, leaving the father behind to mourn. Despite the ocean that now separates them, the powerful bond between parent and child cannot be broken by distance or time. Told in powerful and lyrical verse, this story explores the deep sorrow of separation and the enduring strength of memory. It is a moving and unforgettable tribute to the families who were torn apart and the love that kept their spirits alive.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
50 Pages
Hugh Thomas knows that the Bayou Clapateaux is a strange and unusual place. When he heads out with his fishing pole, he expects a quiet day on the water, but soon he catches three fish, and then a million more! After crossing paths with raccoon bandits, thieving crows, and a very hungry cat named Chantilly, Hugh Thomas has to figure out how to get his massive catch back home. This lively adventure honors the grand tradition of the American tall tale. With vibrant colors and plenty of humor, it is a perfect story for anyone who loves a good exaggeration and the legend of the one that got away.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
38 Pages
