Description

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The magnificent, inspiring story of an
AMERICAN SPORTS HERO, by Newbery Award-winning author Matt de la Pena.

On the eve of World War II, African-American boxer Joe Louis fought German Max Schmeling in a bout that had more at stake than just the world heavyweight title. For much of America, their fight came to represent America’s war with Germany. This elegant and powerful picture book biography centers on this historic fight in which the American people came together to celebrate our nation’s founding ideals. 

New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award 
Booklist Editor's Choice Best Books of 2011 
School Library Journal Best Books of 2011

About the Author

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Matt de la Pena, an acclaimed novelist, lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Kadir Nelson, New York Times bestselling author and two-time Caldecott Honor winner lives in San Diego, California.

Praise For…

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Awards for A Nation's Hope:A New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year (2011), A Booklist Top Ten Biographies for Youth 2011, A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year (2011), A Booklist Editors’ Choice Best Book of the Year (2011)

Praise  for A Nation's Hope:
"Spare, evocative verse melds with the eloquent illustrations to create palpable energy around the fight and Louis's struggle to the top."
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Spectacularly illustrated and smoothly cadanced."
—Booklist (starred review)

"Stunning art and dramatic storytelling."
—School Library Journal (starred review)

"de la Pena's tersely poetic narration is riveting, and Nelson's oil paintings draw viewers directly into the ring."
—BCCB (starred review)