Good books to read by a bold writer, changing the world one word at a time.
Celebrate Lafayette's Bicentennial!
We're in the midst of celebrating Lafayette's impactful return to America 200 years ago. This is important for every American, especially young citizens!
Available Now!
A New Look at George Washington
My latest book George Washington’s Spectacular Spectacles reveals how a pair of glasses saved America! An eye-opening moment in American history that happened at the close of the American Revolution. How did George Washington's spectacles save democracy? Take a look and see!
New Podcast!
A Heartful of History
Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you enjoy podcasts! New episodes drop on Wednesdays. If you love American history, hearing about creative processes, and/or writing, this podcast is for you!
New Release Buzz!
My new book made the list of ten upcoming books to note in School Library Journal's 100 Scope Notes! Travis Jonker, an elementary school librarian in Michigan, whittled down a list of 1172 books! I'm thrilled & honored.
Every January 13th
Casey's Creature Kindness Day
Tragedy struck on January 13, 2023, when my sweet, sweet boy Casey passed away. Please join me in celebrating his life each January 13 by observing Casey's Creature Kindness Day.
Always Remember
Share True Stories About Our Beginnings With Young Readers
Selene Castrovilla's gripping stories about the American Revolution will instill pride in our national identity and engage them in our history.
Thank you to Virginia's elementary school students!
A Special Honor For Seeking Freedom!
Seeking Freedom tells the true story of events at Fortress Monroe in Virginia during the Civil War that led to the end of slavery in America. That's why it's a particular honor to win this award from Virginia's students!
ALSC Notable Children's Book
I'm so proud that Seeking Freedom is an Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)
Notable Children's Book! ALSC is a Division of the American Library Association.
CCBC Choices
I'm thrilled that Seeking Freedom is a Cooperative Children's Book Center Choice as a best-of-the-year book!
New York Public Library Best Books
I'm honored that Seeking Freedom is a NYPL Best Book!
Seeking Freedom Speaks To Readers!
Seeking Freedom Speaks To Readers!
Virginia Readers' Choice Award
ALSC Notable Children's Book
CCBC Choices 2023
A New York Public Library Best Book for Kids
Bank Street Best Book of the Year
★ "Besides telling [George] Scott’s dramatic story, the narrative highlights [Benjamin] Butler’s pivotal decision to regard people who escaped slavery as contraband—a legal strategy enabling the U.S. Army to protect them. With a muted palette featuring grays, greens, browns, and pale, tawny yellows, Lewis creates a series of haunting watercolor paintings that make Scott’s story intense and memorable. This beautifully illustrated picture book enables readers to see the Civil War from a different point of view." —Booklist, starred review
★ "This is a thrilling tale of bravery and cunning, the courage of [George] Scott, and the shrewd actions of General [Benjamin] Butler...Fascinating facts combine with vivid illustrations in a truly powerful recounting of a crucial point in history." —School Library Connection, starred review
★ "This little-known glimpse of Civil War history fills in gaps that are so essential in creating a fuller picture of the history of this country...This is an important and essential addition to all books on American history, the American Civil War and Black history." —Youth Services Book Review, starred review
Starred Booklist Review
Seeking Freedom has a starred Booklist review.
"This beautifully illustrated
picture book enables readers to see the Civil War from a different point of view."
Recognitions
This Is Tap Get Lots of Love!
Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection!
My book received a great honor!
THIS IS TAP: SAVION GLOVER FINDS HIS FUNK
A bouncing picture book biography of the tap dancer behind the Happy Feet penguin.
Soul meets sole.
From that day on, Savion danced.
All the time. Not practicin’. Livin.
’Tippity, tippity, tappity, tappity, TROMP, TROMP, TROMP!
Coming Soon
Twice Enslaved: Liberty and Justice For Henrietta Wood
A lyrical middle grade non-fiction account of the tragic but ultimately triumphant life of Henrietta Wood, born enslaved, freed, illegally re-enslaved, and freed again on Juneteenth, who fought back in court – winning the largest reparations ever awarded a formerly enslaved person in the history of the United States.
Check out my funny podcast!
Socially conscious, warm conversations, intriguing topics, much laughter, wine optional but recommended.
Feeling stressed? Take Life In Jest