This major contribution to children’s literature brings the fascinating range of American Black folktales and humor to all children.

In this treasury, we hear the voice of Virginia Hamilton – a voice that echoes the slaves and fugitives from her own American black ancestry as she tells the stories that keep the culture alive. Here are the spirited trickster tales where the wily Bruh Rabbit outwits larger and stronger animals; robust tall tales filled with riddles and laughter; spine-chilling ghost and devil tales; and finally the moving tales of freedom, including true slave narratives as well as fantasy escapes exemplified by the hauntingly beautiful title story, “The People Could Fly.”

The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales Special Edition
Includes: Exclusive CD Narrated by JAMES EARL JONES and VIRGINIA HAMILTON

Reviews:
Hamilton “tells the stories with a simple power that will make this a classic collection of all ages.” — ALA Booklist (starred)

“Beautifully readable.” — School Library Journal (starred)

“Lovely to look at and as good a source of storytelling as it is to read aloud or alone.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred)

“Seldom has this ancient literature been made available to younger readers. Fortunately, Virginia Hamilton, the distinguished children’s author, has corrected this absence with her extraordinary and wonderful The People Could Fly.” — The New York Times Book Review

Awards:
– ALA Notable Children’s Book
– Booklist Editor’s Choice
– Coretta Scott King Award
– The Horn Book Fanfare Honor Book
– NCTE Teacher’s Choice
– New York Times Best Illustrated Book
– Notable Children’s Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies
– Parent’s Choice Award Recording
– Read-Aloud Handbook Selection
– School Library Journal best Book of the Year

Alfred A. Knopf Publishers
Jacket illustration © 1985 by Leo and Diane Dillon