The 2003 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award

Summary: Explore the soulful journey of the blues with a father-son duo. Through vivid art and poetic verses, they capture the essence of African American experiences from post-slavery to civil rights. Each page reveals a new layer of struggle, love, and resilience, inviting readers to feel the rhythm of history. What stories do the blues tell, and how do they resonate today? This book offers a rich tapestry of emotions and history, perfect for music lovers and art enthusiasts alike, deepening appreciation for this unique art form.

Summary: In 1820, a sperm whale sinks the Essex, leaving its teenage crew adrift in the Pacific. With scant supplies and leaky boats, survival seems impossible. Can they endure starvation, thirst, and fear? Discover the harrowing journey of eight young men who defy the odds in a tale of resilience and courage. As they battle the elements and their own despair, each day becomes a fight for life. Will they find rescue, or will the ocean claim them? This gripping adventure will keep you on edge, revealing the true cost of survival.

Summary: Titus's spring break on the moon turns chaotic when a hacker crashes their feeds, leaving him and his friends in a mental void. Enter Violet, a rebellious girl determined to resist the feed's grip on human thoughts. As they navigate a world dominated by corporate control, Titus must decide whether to join Violet's fight or succumb to the feed's influence. Can they challenge a system that knows their every desire, or will they be consumed by it? Discover a future eerily close to our own in this sharp, satirical tale.

Summary: Charlotte receives a delicate doll from her aunt, expecting it to be a mismatch for her adventurous spirit. But as Dahlia joins in mud cakes and wagon races, Charlotte discovers unexpected camaraderie. When her aunt visits, Charlotte faces a surprising revelation about her new friend. Can a doll truly fit into her world of dirt and trees? This charming tale explores friendship and the unexpected joys of embracing differences.

Summary: Lonnie, an eleven-year-old orphan, channels his grief into poetry, longing to reunite with his sister, Lili, separated by foster care. As he navigates life with his caring foster mother, Miss Edna, and supportive teacher, Ms. Marcus, Lonnie's words reveal his heartache and hope. Can his poetic journey mend his broken family?

Summary: Orville and Wilbur Wright, bound by a shared dream, embark on a daring journey to conquer the skies. From childhood curiosity to perilous experiments in North Carolina, their relentless pursuit of flight culminates in the groundbreaking success of 1903. As they navigate challenges and forge a unique partnership, the brothers' story unfolds in vivid detail, inviting readers to explore the passion and ingenuity behind their historic achievement. Will their bond withstand the pressures of innovation and fame?