Jump Back, Paul: The Life and Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Discover the breadth and depth of Paul Laurence Dunbars poetryand learn how it reflects his singular life as a late-nineteenth-century black man.

Did you know that Paul Laurence Dunbar originated such famous lines as I know why the caged bird sings and We wear the mask that grins and lies From his childhood in poverty and his early promise as a poet to his immense fame and his untimely death, Dunbars story is one of triumph and tragedy. But his legacy remains in his much-beloved poetrytold in both Standard English and in dialectwhich continues to delight and inspire readers today. More than two dozen of Dunbars poems are woven throughout this volume, illuminating the phases of his life and serving as examples of dialect, imagery, and tone. Narrating in a voice full of admiration and respect, Sally Derby introduces Paul Laurence Dunbars life and poetry to readers young and old, aided by Sean Quallss striking black-and-white illustrations.

Reviews

As a poet, [Dunbar] used both voices to splendid effect. Derby uses her grandma voice equally well, evoking the spirit of Dunbars work and humanizing the man behind his poems, many of which are integrated with the text. She is quick to acknowledge the occasional surmise, but her story has the ring of truth, nicely enhanced by Qualls expressionist drawings. Jump back, reader, heres a biography to remember.
Booklist (starred review)

The author is...quite respectful toward this beloved black poet.
Kirkus Reviews

This will be an engaging introduction to one of the lesser-known greats, especially if paired with recorded readings of his poetry to bring out its music.
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Derby writes an engaging biography, oftentimes with interesting personal spins on Dunbars life and poetry. This book is a terrific introduction, and gives the reader the opportunity to learn more about African-American history, and the struggles that African-Americans faced.
School Library Connection

Author Bio

Sally Derby is the author of several books for young readers, including No Mush Today, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell, and Kyles Island. Sally Derby lives in Cincinnati.

Sean Qualls is an award-winning illustrator whose many books for young people include Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat by Roxane Orgill. Sean Qualls lives in Brooklyn.