The Creation

By James Weldon Johnson, James E. Ransome (Illustrator)

A preacher retells the creation story, blending Genesis with Southern oral traditions.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 127 ratings

40 pages

$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In the Deep South, a preacher captivates children with the story of creation, weaving Genesis with rich oral traditions. James Weldon Johnson's poetic retelling, paired with James E. Ransome's vivid illustrations, brings to life a world where darkness is as deep as a cypress swamp. This edition celebrates the legacy of Black American storytelling, inviting readers to experience the awe of creation anew. What truths will emerge from the preacher's tale under the sprawling tree?

From the publisher

An award-winning retelling of the Biblical creation story from a star of the Harlem Renaissance and an acclaimed illustrator James Weldon Johnson, author of the civil rights anthem “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” wrote this beautiful Bible-learning story in 1922, at the height of the Harlem Renaissance. Set in the Deep South, The Creation alternates breathtaking scenes from Genesis with images of a country preacher under a tree retelling the story for children. The exquisite detail of James E. Ransome’s sun-dappled paintings and the sophisticated rhythm of the free verse pay tribute to Black American oral traditions of country sermonizing and storytelling: As far as the eye of God could see/ Darkness covered everything/ Blacker than a hundred midnights/ Down in a cypress swamp. . . . This beautiful new edition of the classic Coretta Scott King Award winner features a fresh, modern design, a reimagined cover, and an introduction of the remarkable life of James Weldon Johnson. Beneath the dust jacket, the case features a detail of Ransome’s beautiful night sky, spangled with stars. A Junior Library Guild selection!