IN HER HANDS

Schroeder, who has previously penned similar biographies of Harriet Tubman, Josephine Baker and Louis Armstrong, turns here to the life of a Florida girl who loved to work in clay. A prominent sculptor who gained fame during the Harlem Renaissance, Savage fell into obscurity and little is known of her life. Her mother was supportive while her preacher father condemned her efforts. She made it to New York City, studied at Cooper Union and created works for the New York Public Library and the 1939 World’s Fair while also directing the Harlem Community Art Center. Much of the actual accomplishments and troubles of her life are covered in the author’s note. The text is a gentle recounting of her childhood and difficult road to New York, embellished with much unsourced dialogue. Still, this works as an introduction to another female African-American artist of note. The acrylic paintings from debut artist Bereal are warm and inviting. (author’s note) (Picture book/biography. 5-8)