Black Jack The Ballad of Jack Johnson

by Smith, Jr., Charles R.; Evans, Shane W.

• ISBN13: 9781596434738
• ISBN10: 1596434732
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2010-06-22
• Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Summary

Strong rhythms in the text and powerful beauty in the art combine to tell the story of Jack Johnson, one of the most renowned boxers of the twentieth century. His hard work and persistence, strength of character and purpose helped him climb the ranks and take a swing and a jab and eventually bust the color barrier. Published to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his history-making bout, this extraordinary marriage of poetry and fabulous collage artwork is a splendid achievement in its own right.

Author Biography

CHARLES SMITH JR. is a celebrated author, poet, and photographer. He has created more than twenty books, including Twelve Rounds to Glory: The Story of Muhammad Ali, a 2008 Corretta Scott King Honor Book and a 2008 Norman Sugarman Best Biography Honor Book and Chameleon, his first novel for young adults. He currently lives in Poughkeepsie, New York with his wife Gillian and three kids, Sabine, Adrian and Sebastian.

SHANE EVANS has illustrated numerous books for children, including the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award winner Shanna's Ballerina Show. He attributes much of his influence to his travels to Africa, South America, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and much of the United States. He is a firm believer in education and creative development for all people.

Table of Contents

“Charles Smith's poetry surges along, with a forceful rhythm that joins ballad and rap, as he follows "a mighty, fightin' man," challenging the color line as well as individual opponents around the world. Shane Evans' illustrations make Johnson's body a monument to intelligence and power.” –Chicago Tribune

“This book is sure to be championed by reluctant readers with energy and restlessness just like Johnson’s, but it is a strong selection for library and classroom read-alouds as well.” —Starred, School Library Journal

“A rousing story, one that celebrates Johnson's dignity, pride, and determination.” –Starred, Publishers Weekly

“The poetry is interspersed with quotes of the time, and illustrator Evans uses oil paint and ink to depict the somber, determined fighter, with collage elements of newspaper articles, maps, and crowds in the backgrounds to set the story firmly in time and place.” —Horn Book

“The elegant simplicity and rat-a-tat rhythms land some stunners . . .  enhanced by Evans’ lithe and swaggering artwork, which lends a tremendous visual charisma, grace, and grandeur.” —Starred, Booklist

“Through poetry, quotations and some prose, the life of one of boxing’s most important stars is celebrated, from his youth as the victim of bullies to the 1908 championship bout against a white fighter that made him a legend.” —Kirkus Reviews