Magnolia Flower by Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, Loveis Wise
Published by Amistad Books for Young Readers on September 6, 2022
ISBN: 0063098318
Pages: 40
Genres: Fairy Tale, Folklore
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

This adaption of African American folklorist Zora Neale Hurston’s short story is a moving tribute to both Black Americans and Indigenous people. Magnolia Flower is a girl born to parents who fled slavery and the Trail of Tears. She falls in love with a young man of letters who her father disapproves of. Magnolia must make a choice and sets off on a journey with John that will prove just how brave she is. Colorful digital illustrations complement the story, featuring many components of the natural world. A good choice of picture books for older students followed up with discussions of U.S. history and also a good addition for Black History Month collections.

Reviewed by Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library