-Between my mother and I, I know we've purchased 10 copies of this important book for children of all hues. From the well known to the obscure, the accomplishments of these great black pioneers written about in such an entertaining manner by Mrs. Withers is history we should all know. I wish that there were more authors like she, who strived to make learning so enjoyable. I hope she continues to write books in this vein because they're sorely needed to keep our children in the know. Bravo, Mrs. Withers!
Joyce E. Davis
Author, Can’t Stop The Shine (KimaniTru/Harlequin)
-"When I Grow Up" by D. L. Withers is a lovely illustrated book showing the wonders that African Americans have done for this country. Many of these great people have gone unrecognized. What a terrific little rhymin book making children aware "YOU CAN BE ANYTHING"! Thanks for sharing this inspirational work with the Lincoln Heritage Public Library in Dale, IN.
Rebecca Rau
Children's Librarian
-I am a Third Grade teacher in
Cheryl Chesterfield
Third Grade Teacher
Cobb County, GA
-I purchased two copies of this wonderful book so both of my children could have a copy. This rhyming book is easy for children to read and the illustrations are beautiful! A book like this is long overdue. D.L. Withers did a beautiful job of sharing some of the amazing accomplishments that African-Americans have made throughout the years with youth of all ethnicities.
-What a great book! If you have ever wondered where to find information about Famous African Americans, I highly recommend this book. So little is known about African Americans who made a difference in the lives of others. D.L. Withers has written an illuminating book for young readers that will fill in the gaps. I found that the information was very insightful and informative to both myself and to my students. Teachers, other educators, parents and anyone else involved in the unending search to supplement traditional textbooks in order to ensure broader inclusion, will welcome this book. In doing so they too will expand their own knowledge and understanding of the subject The content is easy to read and is packed in one book. This book is an excellent resource for students of all races and creeds.
Tanya Singleton
Third Grade Teacher
Cobb County, GA
-D.L. Withers is an exceptional writer. Her book is an inspiration to all students to accomplish all they can in life, and that achieving success is possible. I have used her book as an opener to Black History Month, and the students were thrilled to learn more about famous African-American after hearing her book. I am anxious to read her next one!
Marilyn Thomas
Third Grade Teacher
Cobb County, GA
-When I Grow Up is a wonderful book to read in primary classrooms. It introduces young children to a variety of African American pioneers, many they may have not heard of before. I love the way it tells students that they can be anything that they want to be, no matter their color. It highlights all the contributions African American people have made to our country and the world. The book can be used in conjunction with a unit about careers, in February during Black History Month, or throughout the entire year.
Katitti Watson Williams
Sally Girard
Former Early Intervention Prevention Teacher
-My daughter has taken this book to bed and to school, and she says she’s learned “so much” from it! We love the beautiful illustrations, the creative verse, and the chance to learn more about these important figures in history.
Monica Ault
Parent
-The illustrations are very expressive and the rhymes are clever.
Nicole
9 years old
5th grade student
-I like the pictures in the back and I learned a lot from it.
Anne Marie
7 years old
1st grade student