C.G. Esperanza

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GZLA

KICKS IN THE SKY

September 2023, Katherine Tegen/HarperCollins, 40 pp

Pura Belprè Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor winner C. G. Esperanza delivers color, rhythm, and style in this rollicking tale about everyday treasures turned magical!

Red kicks, green kicks, yellow kicks, blue!

Colorful, psychedelic sneakers hang from telephones wires all over the city. Up in the sky, they hang for all to marvel at. But when a few special pairs get knocked down, the kids have to try them on. Soon they’re racing, dancing, leaning to fly! These enchanted sneaks are out of this world—but where did they come from? And who would ever leave these behind? This joyous picture book is full of fun read aloud moments—perfect for story time and craft activity inspiration!

STARRED REVIEWS

KIRKUS – “A strikingly original pourquoi tale in which tennis shoes make life much more interesting.”

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY – “[A] unique adventure told in tuneful, rhythmic rhyme.”


Marietta Zacker


Picture Book


Art

Contemporary

Poetry

Read-Aloud


Dramatic

Translation

UK

GZLA

BOOGIE BOOGIE Y'ALL

August 2021, Katherine Tegen/HarperCollins, 40pp

Author-illustrator C. G. Esperanza delivers a celebratory ode to graffiti and the Boogie Down Bronx through an infectious read-aloud beat and colorful illustrations that leap right off the page! Perfect for fans of Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut and Keith Haring.

The city is alive with vibrant art in every corner of the parks, the shops, the trains. But most people are too busy to see it—or worse, choose to ignore it! When three children stop to marvel at the art around their community, they realize it’s up to them to show everyone else how truly special it is when art and reality dance together so seamlessly.

STARRED REVIEWS

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL – “Purchase anywhere—everywhere!—an appreciative take on the vibe and culture of urban life is needed.”


Marietta Zacker


Picture Book


Art

Contemporary

Poetry

Read-Aloud


Dramatic

Translation

UK