As an admirer of children’s book illustration and African American Art in general, I wanted to spotlight a phenomenal illustrator of African American History via his depiction of famous trailblazing pioneers of black culture via children’s books. Kadir Nelson has illustrated world leaders like Nelson Mandela, Joe Louis the brown bomber and in We Are The Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball. This was Kadir’s first time authoring and illustrating a young adult book. It led to what I consider the greatest children’s book for young adults interested in learning titled African American History Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans which Kadir wrote and illustrated. I encourage you to explore his earlier illustrated works which he has collaborated with various authors. If you’re a fan of realistic art that resembles someone you know, explore the artwork of Kadir Nelson.
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