Josephine

Much longer than a traditional picture book, this illustrated biography of Josephine Baker will hold the interest of young children thanks to the bright and exciting illustrations. The book begins with a two page illustration of a closed curtain, giving a feeling that the show is about to start. This same illustration is duplicated at the end of the story, to indicate that the show is over. Chapter title pages are illustrated with an open curtain, and a stage set with props and scenery. Pages that feature only text have backgrounds painted in bright colors like blue, green, red, and yellow. The illustrations stay true to the text and lighten the mood of the story, especially when discussing the discrimination and segregation faced by Josephine and many African-American citizens at the time. The images capture the spirit of the ragtime and jazz scenes with Josephine always a dominant figure.

Powell, P. H., & Robinson, C. (2014). Josephine: The dazzling life of Josephine Baker. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books.