Clap Your Hands

TOYOMI IGUS is the author and editor of several multicultural books for children, including the popular Two Mrs. Gibsons about her own biracial, bicultural heritage, and Going Back Home, for which she won the American Book Award. Formerly the publications editor for UCLA’s Center for African American Studies, Toyomi is currently a marketing communications consultant who lives and works in Los Angeles, California. Toyomi has been honored for her work in promoting literacy among children.

Minister MICHELE WOOD is known for her mastery of painting, color theory, and design aesthetics. Her books have been sold in multiple countries, and her numerous accolades include the American Book Award and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award. In 2016, she was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for the book Chasing Freedom. Michele uses her Master of Divinity degree to incorporate theology into her picture books, creating powerful illustrations with Christian symbolism that captivate readers young and old. Visit her website at www.michelewood.com.

'Clap Your Hands uses poetry to chronicle the lineage of gospel music in America, beginning with the celebration of music and deities on the African continent prior to enslavement and concluding with the modern-day gospel. Each double-page spread spotlights a distinct era in time. The poem is the centerpiece of each spread, while vibrant watercolor illustrations depicting beautiful mosaics of gospel-singing Black people are eye catchers as well. Though visually appealing, this title would be better aimed toward middle-grade readers, given the many text-heavy features, such as captions summarizing each era and a running time-line banner of major events in African American history. A Where's Waldo --type figure hidden within each illustration is a fun visual element. Though rich with history, the poetry tends to fall flat with predictable sing-song rhymes, but nevertheless, this is a necessary title documenting a segment of American history that is often untold in books for young people. Despite the minor shortcomings here, readers will still revel in having learned how gospel has influenced our nation today.' -- Booklist, Feb. 7, 2020, Melanie Kirkwood -- Booklist

'Spirited, poetic text and vivid, energetic illustrations brimming with Christian symbolism bring glory to God in this children's picture book celebrates gospel music. Young readers are encouraged to 'Clap your hands to the rhythm. / Clap your hands to the rhythm of Africa. / . . . to the rhythm of a New World . . . / . . . to the rhythm of Plantation Sundays... / . . . to the rhythm of gospel women,' and more. Some rhythms proclaim joy and thanksgiving; others shout out pain and humiliation. Throughout Clap Your Hands, children are introduced to individual singers, composers, and groups who put their stamp on gospel music. They will learn how singing spirituals and gospel music helped African-Americans, enslaved and free, to rise above their trials and to claim lives of dignity. A detailed timeline of events pertaining to African-American history accompanies each poem and illustration. Though recommended for children ages 4-8, the book is better suited for children 8 and older.' -- The Banner, April 28, 2020 -- The Banner