Eloise Greenfield
Greenfield was born Eloise Little in Parmele, North Carolina, and grew up in Washington, D.C., during the Great Depression in the Langston Terrace housing project, which provided a warm childhood experience for her.[1] She was the second oldest of five children of Weston W. Little and his wife Lessie Blanche (née Jones) Little (1906–1986). A shy and studious child, she loved music and took piano lessons.[2][3] Greenfield experienced racism first-hand in the segregated southern U.S., especially when she visited her grandparents in North Carolina and Virginia.[4] She graduated from Cardozo Senior High School in 1946 and attended Miner Teachers College until 1949. In her third year, however, she found that she was too shy to be a teacher and dropped out.[5] Greenfield began work in the civil service at the U.S. Patent Office. In 1950, she married World War II veteran Robert J. Greenfield, a long-time friend. She began writing poetry and songs in the 1950s while working at the Patent Office, finally succeeding in getting her first poem published in the Hartford Times in 1962 after many years of writing and submitting poetry and stories.[6] After joining the District of Columbia Black Writers Workshop in 1971, she began to write books for children. She has published more than 40 children's books, including picture books, novels, poetry and biographies. She says that she seeks to "choose and order words that children will celebrate".[5][7] Dismayed by the depiction of blacks and black communities in popular media, Greenfield has focused her work on realistic but positive portrayals of African-American communities, families and friendships.[1] These relationships are emphasized in Sister (1974) a young girl copes with the death of a parent with the help of other family members, Me and Nessie (1975) about best friends, My Daddy and I (1991) and Big Friend, Little Friend (1991) about mentoring.[5] Her first book, Bubbles (1972), "sets the tone for much of Greenfield's later work: Realistic portrayals of loving African American parents working hard to provide for their families, and the children who face life's challenges with a positive outlook."[1] In She Come Bringing Me that Little Baby Girl (1974), a boy deals with feelings of envy and learns to share his parents' love when his baby sister arrives. The poignant Alesia (1981) concerns the bravery of a girl handicapped by a childhood accident. Night on Neighborhood Street (1991) is a collection of poems depicting everyday life in an urban community. One of her best-known books, Honey I Love, first published in 1978, is a collection of poems for people of all ages concerning the daily lives and loving relationships of children and families. Her semi-autobiographical book Childtimes: A Three-Generation Memoir (1979) describes her happy childhood in a neighborhood with strong positive relationships.[5] In the introduction to that book, she explains her interest in biography: People are a part of their time. They are affected, during the time that they live by the things that happen in their world. Big things and small things. A war, an invention such as radio or television, a birthday party, a kiss. All of these help to shape the present and the future. If we could know more about our ancestors, about the experiences they had when they were children, and after they had grown up, too, we would know much more about what has shaped us and our world.[8] In 1971, Greenfield began work for the District of Columbia Black Writers' Workshop, as co-director of adult fiction and then, in 1973, as director of children's literature. That group's goal was to encourage the writing and publishing of African-American literature. She was writer-in-residence at the District of Columbia Commission on the Arts and Humanities in 1985-86 and taught creative writing in schools under grants from the Commission. She has also lectured and given free workshops on writing of African-American children's
30 Books Written
This award-winning poetry collection includes sixteen poems that tell of love and the simple joys of everyday life seen through the eyes of a child, by legendary author Eloise Greenfield with illustrations by Caldecott Medal-winning illustrators Diane and Leo Dillon. Each of these sixteen poems is spoken straight from the perspective of a child. Riding on a train, listening to music, playing with a friend...each poem elicits a new appreciation of the rich content of everyday life. The poems are accompanied by both portrait and panorama drawings that deepen the insights contained in the words. This beloved book of poetry is a Reading Rainbow Selection, an ALA Notable Children's Book, and the winner of George C. Stone Center for Children's Books' Recognition of Merit Award.
We were one family among the many thousands. Mama and Daddy leaving home, coming to the city, with their hopes and their courage, their dreams and their children, to make a better life. In this beautiful collection of poems and collage artwork, award winners Eloise Greenfield and Jan Spivey Gilchrist gracefully depict the experiences of families like their own, who found the courage to leave their homes behind during the Great Migration and make new lives for themselves elsewhere. When Eloise Greenfield was four months old, her family moved from their home in Parmele, North Carolina, to Washington, D.C. Before Jan Spivey Gilchrist was born, her mother moved from Arkansas and her father moved from Mississippi. Both settled in Chicago, Illinois. Though none of them knew it at the time, they had all become part of the Great Migration. The Great Migration concludes with a bibliography.
The Women Who Caught the Babies: A Story of African American Midwives
by Eloise Greenfield
Rating: 4.3 ⭐
The Women Who Caught the Babies highlights important aspects of the training and work of African-American midwives and the ways in which they have helped, and continue to help, so many families by “catching” their babies at birth. The blend of Eloise Greenfield's poetry and Daniel Minter's art evokes heartfelt appreciation of the abilities of African-American midwifes over the course of time. The poem “Africa to America" begins the poetic journey. The poem “The Women" both heralds the poetry/art pairing and concludes it with a note of gratitude. Also included is a piece titled “Miss Rovenia Mayo,” which pays tribute to the midwife who caught newborn Eloise.
To one young narrator, it's the simple things that mean the most, like sharing laughter with a friend, taking family rides in the country, and kissing her mama's arm.When this poem was first published in 1978 in Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems, Eloise Greenfield reminded us that love can be found just about anywhere. Now, twenty-five years later, she and celebrated children's book artist Jan Spivey Gilchrist present a stunning, newly illustrated anniversary edition that invites readers to celebrate the simple joys of loving and living.
A new collection of poetry for kids from Coretta Scott King Book Award winner Eloise Greenfield! Thinker isn't just an average puppy―he's a poet. So is his owner, Jace. Together, they turn the world around them into verse. There's just one Thinker has to keep quiet in public, and he can't go to school with Jace. That is, until Pets' Day. But when Thinker is allowed into the classroom at last, he finds it hard to keep his true identity a secret. Praise for "Coretta Scott King Award-winner Greenfield sensitively conveys Jace's anxiety about being perceived as different, and his realization that being true to one's self is the best bet―for kids and dog poets, too."― Publishers Weekly A Kate Greenaway Medal nominee
A heartwarming story of a granddaughter's love for her grandfather—a perfect gift for both Father's and Grandparents Day!Tamika loves everything about her grandpa, especially his expressive face. But one day, when Tamika watches Grandpa rehearsing for a play, she sees a different face, one she has never seen before.“Muted realistic paintings complement this story of Tamika, a young girl who grows emotionally through love . . . The carefully chosen combination of visual details and large abstract areas support the notion that love is not always clearly definable.”— School Library Journal“Poet Greenfield tells this warm family story with tenderness and grace, and Cooper makes an outstanding debut. The realistic, full-color double spreads are rich in earth tones and vibrant colors . . . A treasure to set beside [Ann Herbert] Scott’s Sam.”— Kirkus Reviews
From the legendary children's book writer Eloise Greenfield comes the beautiful C oretta Scott King Honor-winning middle grade memoir written in collaboration with her mother and grandmother and illustrated by award-winning illustrator Jerry Pinkney. Three generations of African-American women remember their "childtimes" in this lyrical memoir spanning a century of American history. This book preserves the lives and communities of times past for future generations. Complete with a family tree, photos from the authors' family albums, and drawings by Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator Jerry Pinkney, Eloise Greenfield and Lessie Jones Little's Childtimes beautifully captures the experiences of grandmother, mother, and daughter as they recall moments from their childhood. "The intimate details of loving and growing up and the honesty with which they are told will involve all readers, both white and black, and broaden their understanding of this country's recent past." — School Library Journal
In this stunning Coretta Scott King Award–winning picture book, take a magical and resonant journey to Africa. "I went all the way to Africa / In a dream one night / I crossed over the ocean / In a slow, smooth jump..." In words that sing and pictures that evoke the rich life and culture of the African continent, here is a book that makes real the deepest longings and imaginings of children for the faraway land of their ancestors. A classic picture book for sharing at home or in the classroom. "Greenfield’s lyrical telling and Byard’s marvelous pictures make this book close to an ideal adventure for children, black or white." — Publishers Weekly
With the guileless wonder and innocence of a little girl, Alaina is profoundly changed by the performance. As she falls in love with the art of live theater, her enthusiasm lands her center stage. “But when I opened my mouth, the right words didn’t come out. I was too excited to say that little speech. It wasn’t good enough for that great play, so…”
A Coretta Scott King Honor BookA wonderful collection of poems, this book gives a beautiful snapshot of life on Neighborhood Street.“The magical andeveryday reside comfortably together on Neighborhood Street and make it well worth the visit.”— Booklist "A warm, triumphant book."— School Library Journal
What happens when the family closes the front door and leaves the house for an outing? “The head of cabbage, sitting in the fridge, hears the front door close, hears the click of the key … He looks out … sees his people leave … He stands in the middle of the floor … throws his head back and yells, “PAR-TAY!” Children and adults will experience this house party through the buoyant, rhythmic words of Eloise Greenfield and the playful, exuberant illustrations of Don Tate. Read and join the PAR-TAY !
In brief poems, a nine-year-old boy shares his views on his mother's death, knowledge, friends, school, his father, and the future
A chapter book biography for early readers about one of the women who sparked the Civil Rights movement, by legendary author Eloise Greenfield and with illustrations by Gil Ashby. When Rosa Parks was growing up in Montgomery, Alabama, she hated the unfair rules that black people had to live by—like drinking out of special water fountains and riding in the back of the bus. Years later, Rosa Parks changed the lives of African American in Montgomery—and all across America—starting with one courageous act. How could one quiet, gentle woman have started it all? This is her story. Complete with black-and-white illustrations by Gil Ashby, this chapter book by bestselling and award-winning author Eloise Greenfield is the perfect introduction to Rosa Parks for early readers. * Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies (NCSS/CBC) * Carter G. Woodson Book Award *
This treasured poetry collection by Coretta Scott King Award-winning collaborators Eloise Greenfield and Jan Spivey Gilchrist journeys to a place where words, creativity, and imagination abound. Featuring twenty-one poems illustrated with sewn fabric collages, this tribute to the written word invites readers to look within themselves to discover what inspires them. Eloise Greenfield, winner of the National Council of Teachers of English Excellence in Poetry for Children Award, The words can come from a memory, or a dream, or something I see or hear or wonder about or imagine. . . . Maybe there's a place where words live, where our minds and hearts can go and find them when we want to write or read. I like to imagine that there is such a place. I call it "The Land of Words." Includes an author's note, a table of contents, sources, and an index.
An inspiring picture book biography about an outstanding black educator during the years following the Civil War, from the award-winning author/illustrator team of Eloise Greenfield and Jerry Pinkney. "The drums of Africa still beat in my heart. They will not let me rest." These are the words of Mary McLeod Bethune. She worked her whole life to make the world a better place. As a child, she loved to read. As a woman, she loved to teach. She started a school; she founded a hospital. Everywhere she saw a need, she searched for a solution. The daughter of former enslaved Americans, Mary McLeod Bethune became one of the most important Black educators, civil and women's rights leaders and government officials of the twentieth century. This picture book biography is a strong choice to share both in the classroom and at home. "Simply told, this biography of an outstanding black educator has excellent illustrations." — School Library Journal
Celebrate friendship with Coretta Scott King Award winners Eloise Greenfield and Jan Spivey Gilchrist! Drum is worried that summer will be a bummer until Dorene, Louis, and Rae enter his life unexpectedly. Together they embark on an unforgettable summer of discovery and creative play. With free-verse poetry perfect for reading aloud and inspired illustrations, this picture book by the legendary author/illustrator team follows four children as they explore the bonds of friendship, family, and community. "Fun for reading aloud." — Booklist
A boy learns to be a big brother in this award-winning picture book by the legendary author Eloise Greenfield and two-time Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator John Steptoe. Kevin asked his mother to bring him a little brother from the hospital, but she comes home with a little baby girl instead. Worse, Mama and Daddy look at her like she's the only baby in the world. It makes Kevin sick, until he begins to understand how important a big brother can be. Perfect for big brothers and sisters adjusting to their growing families! * ALA Notable Children's Book * Boston Globe–Horn Book Award Honor Book * IRA/CBC Children's Choices * Irma Simonton Black Award (Bank St. College of Ed.) *
For the Love of the Game: Michael Jordan and Me (Trophy Picture Books
by Eloise Greenfield
Rating: 3.6 ⭐
Two children are inspired by NBA superstar Michael Jordan to overcome obstacles and soar, in this picture book by legendary author/illustrator team Eloise Greenfield and Jan Spivey Gilchrist. This inspiring picture book poem encourages children to view life with the same determination and passion that Michael Jordan displayed in how he played basketball. By listening to their inner voice and looking to those who love and support them, children can find their own way to fly. Distinguished poet Eloise Greenfield and celebrated artist Jan Spivey Gilchrist honor the beauty of the human spirit and offer a timeless message that will resonate with readers young and old.
Poetry and portraits of young black children reveal all the beauty in children's wishes, yearnings, and memories. "Greenfield and Feelings have unquestionably worked together in harmony to create their sensitive portrayals of black boys and girls".--Publishers Weekly.
In this warm and humorous story by the award-winning poet and author, a young girl whose laughter often hides emotions she's afraid to reveal learns how to deal with her feelings--good and bad.Koya Delaney loves to laugh and make others laugh. But sometimes she hides behind her smile, afraid to reveal other feelings, like anger. When Koya's cousin Del, a famous pop music star, announces he's coming to town to give a concert, Koya is especially happy.But as the date of Del's concert approaches, a fight erupts between Koya's best friend Dawn and her sister Loritha, leaving Koya torn between them. For the first time, Koya finds herself in a situation that cannot be solved with laughter and jokes. And when rude fans threaten to ruin Del's concert, she realizes she must confront her feelings--good and bad.
Because Tyree wants to stay awake all night so that he can surprise his father when he comes home in the morning, the young boy makes a deal with his mother
Presents a collection of poems about children around the world, focusing on the children's perceptions of war and how the turmoil of war affects their lives.
When Rhondy's usually happy grandmother grows sad after learning that they must find another place to live, Rhondy tries to cheer her up by singing and dancing, reminding her that they will still have what is most important--each other. A Coretta Scott King Honor Book. Reprint.
Janell tells what happens to her invisible friend, Neesie, when Aunt Bea comes to visit and Janell starts school.
Paul Robeson, born in 1898 and the son of a pastor, learned from his father to love written and spoken words, to be proud of being black, and to stand up for what he believed was right. These were the things that guided Paul throughout his life. After achieving academic and athletic success in school, Paul gained fame as a singer and an actor. His talent and his deep, rich voice won him fans and admirers worldwide. But as he traveled the globe for performances, Robeson became disturbed by the poverty and injustices he saw. In the 1940s and 1950s he began speaking out and fighting for freedom. Such activism was not tolerated, and Robeson came to be considered an enemy by the United States government. With dignity and a dynamic spirit, Paul Robeson- athlete, actor, singer, and civil rights activist- stayed true to himself and took a stand for his beliefs.
Celebrate the love of brothers and sisters everywhere with award-winning author Eloise Greenfield in this poignant collection of poems for and about families, illustrated by renowned artist Jan Spivey Gilchrist.“These are the sweetest poems for kids and families of all kinds.” —Charlotte Observer Brothers and sisters can be dear, can be company, can bring cheer, can start arguments, can make noise, can cause tears, can break toys . . .Still, I think no matter what, I’d rather have them than not.This collection of 25 short poems about life with siblings—full, half, step, old and young, close in age and far apart—showcases the powerful and special bond between all brothers and sisters. With lyrical text and pen-and-ink and vibrant watercolor illustrations, Brothers & Sisters is the perfect way for the children in your family to share their love for each other.“Everyone can relate to the poems’ affection, frustration, laughter, jealousy, and family pride, as well as the love that always shines through.” —Booklist
An award-winning picture book poetry collection for children by the legendary poet Eloise Greenfield with illustrations by critically acclaimed artist Amos Ferguson. "The perfect collaboration between two master image-makers." — School Library Journal The twenty poems in this collection are filled with love, humor, dignity, and a deep appreciation for our colorful surroundings. Eloise Greenfield's rich verse is accompanied by the fresh, vivid paintings of Amos Ferguson that are a love song to his native Bahamas. With joyful poems including " To Catch a Fish," "Lucky Little Birds," "To Friendship ," and more, children will absolutely love this accessible picture book.
A chapter book perfect for early independent readers about change, family tension, and the power of love, by legendary author Eloise Greenfield and with illustrations by James Calvin. Genny is hopeful that her brother's return from the army will magically stop her parents from fighting all the time. But when Larry's return doesn't produce the miracle she had counted on, Genny is angry. It takes a sympathetic friend to help her understand that change isn't necessarily bad—and that families can still love each other, no matter what happens. James Calvin's dynamic black-and-white illustrations perfectly complement Greenfield's kid-friendly text, making this chapter book perfect for early independent readers.
Sister
by Eloise Greenfield
‘Doretha is thirteen, black, and confused by her ambivalence about herself. . . . Leafing through her diary, Doretha remembers—and each memory of the past four years reveals something about her and about the people she has loved. The book is strong in perception, in its sensitivity, in its realism.’ —C. Outstanding Children’s Books of 1974 (NYT)
Although the young cousins live many miles apart, Leanna in Chicago and Elizabeth in Washington, D.C., both prepare for an Easter parade against the backdrop of the Second World War.Eloise Greenfield's moving story demonstrates the strength that love and hope give to women at all times. Jan Spivey Gilchrist's illustrations reflect the beauty and inspiration of this shared experience between two cousins and their mothers at Easter time.