You Come from Greatness: A Celebration of Black History: A Picture Book

A young boy learns that he is walking in the footsteps of greatness through a vibrant, lyrical retelling of Black history--both a love letter to Black children and an anthem empowering them to know their God-given worth.

"A reminder to Black children that they are capable of greatness."--Kirkus Reviews

You came bustling into the world,
a mighty bundle of energy, ready to do great things.
And no wonder.
You stand on the shoulders of those who came before,
and you, too, were born to shine.

Starting with his birth, the boy's father lays out the history of his son's ancestry: from the love and warmth of a big family, to the change makers and status shakers, the inventors and engineers, the astronomers, philosophers, and storytellers, the leaders and the doctors. The father details the legacy and impact of Black ancestors whose determination, strength, dedication, creativity, and leadership contributed to making the world better.

Throughout the story, the boy discovers the rich heritage of those that have gone before him and learns how he embodies that same greatness. He, too, has the power to change the world by embracing exactly who God made him to be.

You Come from Greatness includes illustrations of Black historical figures such as Wangari Muta Maathai, Ellie Mannette, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, and more, with twenty short biographies at the end of the book.

Author: Sara Chinakwe
Publisher: Waterbrook Press
Published: 01/17/2023
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 11.00h x 9.20w x 0.40d
ISBN: 9780593578285
Audience: Ages 9-12


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 12/15/2022

About the Author
Sara Chinakwe is an author, teacher, and children's ministry leader. She encourages women and children to pursue God's purpose and embrace their God-given identity. Sara's deep love of teaching and decades-long career in education was shaped during her time at California State University, Stanislaus. Since then, she has used writing as a medium to propel God's followers forward as they journey with Him.

Ken Daley was born in Cambridge, Ontario, to parents who emigrated from the Dominica, West Indies. Drawing inspiration from his African Caribbean roots, his work is an explosion of color and emotion, leaving a lasting impression in the mind of the viewer. His work has been featured in several picture books, including In the Spirit of a Dream and Auntie Luce's Talking Paintings, which received a starred review from Kirkus Reviews.