Troubled Waters - by Carole Boston Weatherford Hardcover

About the Book

Book Synopsis

From Young People's Poet Laureate Carole Boston Weatherford and award-winning illustrator Bryan Collier, a stirring account of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, as witnessed by the Alabama River.

Some say water is the mightiest force on earth.
But the yearning for freedom is even stronger.

For centuries, the Alabama River has been a witness. Buried in its riverbed are countless fossils and artifacts-as well as souls, secrets, and stories.

Troubled Waters brings history to life through the voice of this mighty waterway, from the earliest settlers on its shores to 1965, when Black citizens in Selma rose up like a river to demand their right to vote.

In this breathtakingly original picture book, celebrated creators Carole Boston Weatherford and Bryan Collier show that the Alabama River is much more than a witness to history. It is also a source of strength, keeping hope afloat through times of trouble; and a rising tide, coursing on a journey toward justice.

Review Quotes

"* A gorgeously illustrated, truthfully told history that no collection should be without." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"* Powerful. . . . Weatherford's authentic and innovative storytelling transforms history into a deeply resonant experience. . . . Collier's stunning mixed-media illustrations . . . visually echo themes of perseverance and hope." --Horn Book, starred review

"* In -Weatherford's -exceptional account of the -historic events, the river becomes a character itself. . . . This phenomenal historical account of the Alabama River is a must-purchase for all -library collections." --School Library Journal, starred review

"* Boston Weatherford and Collier limn an arresting history of the Alabama River from the water body's perspective in this distinctive picture book. . . . [Shows] how the living and the lost share the same history. It's an accurate telling that acknowledges a continuation of resistance." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

"This beautifully realized picture book from venerable author Weatherford. . . . packs in power as it illuminates Alabama's past." --Booklist

"This book is sure to spark discussion and empower readers of all ages." --School Library Journal, starred review, on BE A KING

"Heartbreaking and legendary." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on BOX

"A moving tale of triumph that brings the past to life." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on FREEDOM ON THE SEA

"Uplifting and inspiring . . . a welcome addition to civil rights picture books." --Booklist, starred review, on WE SHALL OVERCOME

About the Author

Carole Boston Weatherford is the award-winning author of more than 80 books of poetry, nonfiction, and children's literature. Her acclaimed picture books include the Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Unspeakable, the Newbery Honoree Box, and four Caldecott Honorees. She has been recognized with the Children's Literature Legacy Award, two NAACP Image Awards, a WNDB Walter Award, and numerous other honors. A retired professor, she resides in Maryland.
cbweatherford.com

Bryan Collier began painting at the age of 15 and channeled that love into an illustrious career as a children's book illustrator and writer. He has won four Caldecott Honors, six Coretta Scott King Awards, and three Coretta Scott King Honors. His books include Uptown, Martin's Big Words, Rosa, All Because You Matter and many others. Bryan lives in New York with his wife and daughter.