An empowering and joyous picture book by actress Kirby Howell-Baptiste (The Sandman) that instills confidence and encourages little Black girls to reach for their wildest dreams.Illustrated by the talented Paul Davey, this inspiring picture book celebrates all little Black girls, the power of community, and the joy and hope of being a child.
In beautiful, lyrical text actress Kirby Howell-Baptiste tells the story of one Black girl and her limitless potential as she pursues her dream of robotics. Determined to have her robot ready for the school fair, getting everything done in time won’t be easy, but this little Black girl knows she is destined to shine and is not going to let anything hold her back from achieving her dream. With bright, bold plans in mind she begins to sketch and build her robot. The joy she has pursuing her passion is infectious and she has a community of strong women around her, encouraging and supporting her as she lives out her dream.
You have sparks in your brain and fire in your heart.You can decide where to stop and where to start.You were born unique. None of us are the same.Your only job: Make them remember your name.
On sale: November 15, 2022
Age: 4-8 years
Grade: Preschool - 3
Page count: 32 Pages
ISBN: 9780593406236
Reading level: Lexile: AD680L | Fountas/Pinnell: M
Kirby Howell-Baptiste is an actress from London who is best known for her memorable roles in
Killing Eve,
The Good Place,
Barry,
Why Women Kill, and
Veronica Mars. In 2021, Howell-Baptiste can be seen starring in several exciting film projects including Disney's
Cruella and STX Films'
Queenpins. Kirby is also a well-established voice actor known for
Infinity Train,
Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous,
Tig and Seek, and the upcoming DC animated feature
Catwoman.
Paul Davey is a Jamaican illustrator and digital artist based in London.
Little Black Girl and
Little Black Boy will be his debut picture books.
Praise for Little Black Girl:★ “This
poetic story is
a love letter to every little Black girl who has ever felt left out from the world around her. Throughout the book, readers are reminded of just how unique and important they are, even if they are not always able to recognize that truth themselves. . . Digitally rendered illustrations are filled with
intricate color and shading, and
readers will be inspired to discuss the images as the story progresses. VERDICT
This uplifting, approachable book offers unlimited encouragement to children of all ages to believe in themselves and relentlessly chase their beautiful dreams.” —
School Library Journal,
starred review“
Inspirational. . . [with] a
dreamlike quality to the art . . .
A stirring story about a Black girl learning to celebrate
her own uniqueness.” —
Kirkus