Before the Ships

Before the Ships is a powerful and poetic celebrationof the early roots of Black history. The great achievements and accomplishments across Africa priorto the Transatlantic slave trade are told through melodious textand evocative illustrations, that culminate into the strength andresilience of modern-day Black people.For so many of us, the first introduction to Black history beginswith lessons about slavery. While slavery is a crucial part ofAfrican-American history, it is not the beginning. In fact, thereis a rich history tied to the continent of Africa that deservesto be told and to be marveled at - which is exactly what MaishaOso does in Before the Ships.With sparse yet moving text, Maisha takes us back in time to beforethe advent of the Transatlantic slave trade. We see the grandnessof African royalty, the bravery of warriors like the Queenof Kush, and stories being told in song with griots and drums.Candice Bradley's gorgeous and reflective illustrations illuminatethe strength of Black history and Black joy, reminding readersabout the power within us all.