Celebrating Black History Month: Jacqueline Woodson

Today I would like to celebrate Jacqueline Woodson, an author who has greatly influenced my life. She writes for every age group and represents folx at many intersections of our lives.

As an elementary teacher, I learn a great deal from Jaqueline Woodson’s relevant and heart-filled picture books, and then more from the resulting discussions among students. Jacqueline’s stories provide me and young learners with words, actions, and ideas to work toward a better tomorrow.

Jacqueline Woodson’s adult fiction, essays, poetry and young adult stories are also powerful. They address topics such as race, sexuality and economics as the characters grow through the truths of adolescence and adulthood.

Here’s an interview about her newest book Red at the Bone. Some of her books can be found in the library, but if the one you want isn’t available, ask a librarian.

This video and text was submitted by Charlotte Griffiths.

Who has inspired you? In celebration of Black History Month, the OICL Task Force invites you to share or film a short video about someone who is important to you. Please send your submission to OICL & Ms. White with a short introduction to the video and/or the person featured in it, and we’ll include it in a future Bulletin post!