Jewell Parker Rhodes

Donte wishes he could just disappear. As one of the few Black boys at the elite Middlefield Prep, he feels like he is constantly swimming in a sea of whiteness. The students don't like him, and the teachers make it painfully obvious that they prefer his lighter-skinned, white-presenting brother, Trey. They call Donte the Black Brother and treat him like a troublemaker, no matter what he does. When a clash with Alan, the school's arrogant fencing captain, leads to Donte's unfair arrest and suspension, he decides he has finally had enough. He isn't going to hide anymore. To get even, Donte plans to beat the King of the school at his own elite game: fencing. Teaming up with a tough, former Olympic fencer, Donte begins grueling training to earn his spot on the team. But as he learns to parry and strike, he discovers that this journey is about much more than revenge. It is a powerful story about finding your voice, demanding respect, and fighting for your own self-worth.

Dr. Marie Levant thought she had finally escaped the dark magic of New Orleans. As the great-great-granddaughter of the legendary Voodoo queen Marie Laveau, she has already faced down unimaginable evil. Now, seeking peace, she travels to the quiet backwater town of DeLaire. But peace is the last thing waiting for her. An elderly woman named Nana has been expecting Marie, desperate for her help to save the town from a mysterious wave of sickness and death. When Marie discovers corpses in an abandoned house by the road, she realizes her formidable powers might not be enough. The dead cannot be brought back, and the living are too terrified to speak. Are these gruesome crimes the work of shape-shifters, vampires, and ghosts—or something far more human and sinister? As Marie races to untangle a web of deadly secrets, a massive hurricane brews on the horizon, threatening to shatter the Louisiana levees and wash away everything in its path. Blending spine-tingling suspense with rich supernatural lore, this gripping mystery will pull you into a haunting world where the past and present collide in a storm of magic and malice.

History isn't just something that happened a long time ago—sometimes, it is the invisible force shaping your own family. When fifth-grader Deja starts at a new school, her teacher introduces a series of lessons about home, community, and two incredibly tall towers that once stood visible right outside their classroom window. Deja is completely confused. She wasn't even born when the September 11th attacks happened, so why does it matter so much now? Determined to find the big answer, Deja teams up with her new friends, Ben and Sabeen, to uncover the truth. But the closer she gets to understanding what America means and how communities heal, the more personal the questions become. Why does her Pop get so angry and shut down whenever she brings up the towers? This powerful, thought-provoking novel follows a young girl's journey to uncover a defining moment in history. It is a touching story about friendship, healing, and discovering how the past connects us all.

Dr. Marie Levant is a brilliant physician in Chicago, grounded in science and logic. But an unseen, undeniable force is pulling her back to her roots in New Orleans. As the great-great-granddaughter of the legendary Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, Marie is about to discover that her family's mystical legacy is very real—and she is the only one who can stop a terrifying new threat. In a modern-day New Orleans where the dark echoes of the past still linger, a horrifying medical mystery is unfolding. Women of color are being targeted, abused, and left in a chilling, zombie-like state. The authorities are baffled, but Marie knows this is no ordinary crime. To untangle this sinister web, she must embrace the spiritual empowerment, prophetic visions, and Voodoo magic she has spent her life running from. Fierce, unapologetic, and incredibly smart, Marie must step into her power to save the victims. This spellbinding, modern mystery blends medical suspense with deep magical roots for a truly unforgettable thriller.

Twelve-year-old Jerome is just a regular kid, playing outside with a toy gun. But in a tragic, devastating instant, a police officer mistakes his toy for a real threat, and Jerome's life is cut short. Now a ghost, Jerome is forced to wander the earth, watching the heartbreaking aftermath of his death. He sees his family shattered by grief and his community erupting in anger over the unjust killing. But Jerome is not alone. Soon, he meets the ghost of Emmett Till, a boy from a different era who suffered a similar, tragic fate. With Emmett's guidance, Jerome begins a powerful journey to understand the deep historical roots of racism that led to his own death. Along the way, Jerome also connects with Sarah, the daughter of the police officer who shot him. As Sarah grapples with her father's terrible actions, the two form an unexpected bond. This gripping, poignant, and incredibly important novel explores the complexities of race, history, and healing in today's world.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1921. In one of the most prosperous Black neighborhoods in America, a single panicked scream is about to ignite a devastating firestorm. When Joe Samuels, a young Black man who dreams of becoming the next Harry Houdini, is falsely accused of assaulting a white woman in an elevator, he is forced to perform the most desperate escape of his life. With a bloodthirsty lynch mob gathering, Joe must use every ounce of his wits to survive. Meanwhile, Mary Keane, the white woman whose terrified cry started it all, harbors a dark secret of her own. Trapped by her abusive family, Mary must find the unimaginable courage to step forward and exonerate the man she accused before an entire community is destroyed. This harrowing and unforgettable historical novel brings to life one of the darkest chapters in American history. Weaving together themes of racism, vigilantism, and profound injustice, it paints an intimate, gripping portrait of a heroic but doomed stand. It is a powerful story of survival, truth, and the tragic collision of two lives in a divided world.

Step into the sultry, mysterious streets of nineteenth-century New Orleans, where danger lurks in the shadows and magic is real. Marie Laveau is a powerful Voodoo Queen, but even she is tested when a series of gruesome events shakes her city to its core. When a young woman is found dead, Marie must use all her cunning, intuition, and spiritual connections to uncover the truth. As she dives deeper into the investigation, she finds herself entangled in a dark web of secrets, betrayal, and hidden motives that threaten not only her own life but the safety of those she loves. You will be captivated by the rich historical details and the suspenseful twists as Marie races against time to stop a ruthless killer under the glow of the yellow moon. This gripping historical mystery blends real-life legends with thrilling fiction, offering a spellbinding journey into a world where the line between the living and the dead is dangerously thin.

Three kids. One dog. And the entire island of Manhattan laid out on a secret treasure map. Zane is desperate for a real adventure, something to take his mind off his family's boarding house in Queens. So when he gets his hands on an actual treasure map pointing to a hidden fortune somewhere in New York City, he doesn't hesitate. Grabbing his best friends, Kiko and Jack, and his loyal dog, Hip-Hop, Zane hops the ferry to Manhattan to begin the ultimate hunt. Their search leads them to John, a mysterious sailor who knows the forgotten history of Black New Yorkers from centuries past—and the legendary gold buried within those stories. But Zane and his crew aren't the only ones looking for the prize. A vicious, threatening crew of skateboarders is hot on their trail, turning the city streets into a dangerous obstacle course. As the chase takes them deep under the city and through hidden historical landmarks, Zane must figure out who he can truly trust. This thrilling, modern-day spin on a classic adventure is packed with action, hidden history, and high-stakes mystery.

Have you ever dreamed of writing a novel but felt completely stuck on where to begin? For aspiring writers, finding your unique voice can be a daunting journey—especially when traditional writing guides overlook your cultural experiences. This empowering and practical guidebook is specifically designed to support, educate, and sustain African-American writers as they bring their stories to life. Packed with step-by-step advice, engaging journal exercises, and brilliant story examples, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to craft compelling fiction. You will learn the secrets of character development, plotting, building atmosphere, and mastering dialogue. Alongside these essential techniques, you will find inspiring advice and analyses of famous works from legendary Black authors like James Baldwin, Zora Neale Hurston, and Edwidge Danticat. Whether you are staring at a blank page or trying to revise a finished draft, this invaluable resource provides the encouragement and tools you need to succeed. It is a celebration of Black artistry and a roadmap to getting your fiction published.

City-girl Maddy is spending her first summer down in the Louisiana bayou, and she is completely enchanted. From the glimmering fireflies lighting up the night sky to the lush, wild landscape, everything feels alive. But the most magical discovery of all is something hidden deep within the water—something only Maddy can see. Could it really be a mermaid? As Maddy spends time with her wise grandmother, she learns about the old sayings, signs, and deep-rooted traditions of her ancestors. Soon, she realizes that she might be the only one in her family to carry on their powerful magical legacy. But her newfound gifts are quickly put to the test when a disastrous oil leak threatens to destroy the beautiful bayou and everything living in it. Now, Maddy must find her inner courage and use her family's magic to protect the place she has grown to love. This captivating coming-of-age story weaves together Southern folklore, environmental awareness, and the unbreakable bonds of family into an unforgettable summer adventure.

Some of the best lessons in life aren't learned in a classroom—they are shared on a front porch, passed down from generation to generation. In this heartwarming and beautifully told collection, an award-winning author invites you to sit down and listen to the magical, wise, and unforgettable stories her grandmother shared with her during her childhood. Through a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes, gentle advice, and powerful life lessons, you will discover the strength, humor, and resilience of a family deeply connected to their roots. These stories capture the simple but profound moments of growing up, offering a window into a world where storytelling is a bridge between the past and the future. Filled with warmth and love, this touching memoir celebrates the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. It is a beautiful reminder of how the voices of our elders can guide us, comfort us, and help us understand exactly who we are.

Behind every great historical figure are the untold stories of the people who shaped their lives. Frederick Douglass is known to the world as a fierce abolitionist, a brilliant orator, and a tireless champion for freedom. But behind his public persona lay a complex and deeply hidden personal life. This captivating historical novel explores the intense romantic passions that drove Douglass, focusing on the two very different women who captured his heart and shared his tumultuous journey—one Black, and one white. Through their eyes, we see a new side of an American icon. As these women navigate the dangerous and shifting political landscapes of the 19th century, they must also grapple with their own desires, sacrifices, and the heavy burden of loving a man who belongs to history. Richly detailed and emotionally gripping, this novel offers a provocative look at love, race, and loyalty. It is a powerful exploration of the private struggles that fuel public greatness, perfect for readers who love immersive historical fiction.

It is 1889, barely twenty-five years after the Emancipation Proclamation, and Will’s family is tired of working on land they will never be allowed to own. When Will and his father hear about an upcoming land rush, they pack up and leave Texas for Oklahoma. They are ready to race thousands of others for a chance to claim free land, but the journey is far from easy. The terrain is rough, brutal bandits roam the trails, and every interaction carries a heavy undercurrent of danger. Along the way, they befriend a mysterious soldier named Caesar, whose Union emblem attracts unwanted trouble. Together, they are propelled by the promise of freedom, land ownership, and a true place to call home. This thrilling adventure explores a powerful chapter of history, testing whether a strong will and fierce courage are enough to survive the race.

Step into the sultry, mysterious streets of mid-19th-century New Orleans, where one woman holds the city in the palm of her hand. Marie Laveau is the notorious Queen of Voodoo. Worshiped by some and deeply feared by others, she commands respect from both Black and white citizens alike in a deeply divided society. But who is the real woman behind the terrifying and awe-inspiring legend? This mesmerizing historical novel reimagines the life of Marie Laveau, peeling back the myths to reveal a fiercely powerful, complex, and brilliant woman. As she navigates a treacherous world of politics, spirituality, and survival, Marie must harness her unique gifts to protect her people and secure her own legacy. Filled with vivid, unforgettable characters and rich insights into the true practices of Voodoo, this gripping story blends history and magic into an intoxicating read. It is a spellbinding tale of power, identity, and the extraordinary lengths one woman will go to forge her own destiny.

Addy is haunted by the past. After a tragic fire took her parents' lives, she has lived with a deep, lingering fear. Now, years later, her grandmother has signed her up for a summer wilderness program out West, far away from her familiar city life. Joining five other Black city kids, Addy steps into the deep forest. Together, they learn incredible new skills—how to hike, rock climb, and safely build campfires. Most importantly, they learn how to trust and depend on one another. For the first time in a long time, Addy feels like she belongs. But the wilderness is unpredictable. When a devastating, massive forest fire suddenly sweeps through the area, Addy finds herself face-to-face with her greatest nightmare. To survive, she must dig deep and find her inner courage. Using her new wilderness skills, her street smarts, and the spiritual intuition passed down from her grandmother, Addy must step up to lead her friends to safety. This is a thrilling, powerful story about resilience, friendship, and facing your fears.

Ten-year-old Sugar knows that slavery is officially over, but her life on the River Road sugar plantation doesn't feel very free. Laboring in the hot Louisiana fields all day is exhausting, but Sugar's bright spirit refuses to be dimmed. She has a special talent for finding her own fun, especially when she sneaks away to play with Billy, the white plantation owner's son. Sugar is endlessly curious about the world beyond the Mississippi River. When a group of Chinese workers is brought in to help harvest the cane, the older folks on the plantation are suspicious and fearful. But Sugar is fascinated. She quickly befriends a young boy named Beau and the wise Master Liu, eagerly learning about their rich traditions while sharing the customs of her own community. As tensions rise among the adults, Sugar realizes that it is up to her to bridge the gap between the two cultures. This heartwarming, inspiring story shows how an unlikely friendship can break down walls and change a community forever.

When twelve‑year‑old Jerome is shot by a police officer who mistakes his toy gun for a real weapon, his story doesn’t end on the street—it continues as a ghost watching his own tragedy unfold. In this graphic‑novel adaptation, Jerome meets the spirit of Emmett Till, whose own brutal death a century earlier still echoes today. Together they explore how history, racism and community grief intertwine, while Jerome also confronts Sarah, the officer’s daughter, who is trying to make sense of her father’s actions. The striking artwork pulls you into a world where the past and present collide, urging readers to consider how injustice reverberates across generations. It’s a powerful, age‑appropriate look at social justice, history, and the resilience of young voices.

Twelve-year-old Lanesha doesn't have a fancy house or a big group of friends, but she has something much more important: Mama Ya-Ya. Living in the tight-knit Ninth Ward of New Orleans, Lanesha is raised by her fiercely loving caretaker, a wise woman who has the mysterious ability to predict the future. Mama Ya-Ya's visions have always kept them safe. But when she foresees a terrifying, massive hurricane named Katrina fast approaching their home, the warning is more dire than anything they have ever faced. As the storm hits and the floodwaters begin to rise, Lanesha realizes that she can no longer rely solely on Mama Ya-Ya's protection. It is up to her to find the courage, strength, and hope that her caretaker has instilled in her over the years. This deeply emotional and uplifting story is a celebration of resilience and the unbreakable bonds of family. It is a gripping tale of survival that shows how love can shine through even the darkest of storms.

Get ready to feel the beat and move your feet! Stepping is more than just a dance—it is a powerful way to tell a story, share your feelings, and connect with the people you love most. In this vibrant and energetic book, you will discover the incredible bonds of sisterhood that grow through the rhythmic art of step. When sisters step together, they create a special kind of magic. Every clap, stomp, and cheer is a celebration of family, history, and working as a team. As you turn the pages, you will feel the excitement of the performance and the warmth of sisters supporting each other every step of the way. Perfect for young readers who love music, movement, and family stories, this joyful book shows how sharing a passion can bring us closer together. Are you ready to find your own rhythm and join the dance?