Bryan Collier

Books by This Illustrator

Freedom River

Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 6-9

Not only did John Parker buy his own freedom to escape slavery, he helped as many as 900 other slaves escape on the Underground Railroad. Poetic language and deeply hued illustrations convey this stirring story. Historical notes are included.

I, Too, Am America

Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 3-6

A celebration of Pullman porters is the focus of this new picture-book edition of Langston Hughes' classic poem. The collage spreads, blending oil paintings and cut paper, begin with an image of a speeding train before moving on to large portraits of African American porters serving white passengers aboard a luxury train. When the passengers leave, the porters gather left-behind items — newspapers, blues and jazz albums — and toss them from the train. Carried by the wind, the words and music fall into the hands of African Americans across the country.

John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon

Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 6-9

John Lennon and his music are introduced to a new generation in Lennon's own words, using free verse and lyrics. With Collier's rich collage and watercolor illustrations in a large-sized format (like Martin's Big Words) this memorable presentation becomes a tribute to the music legend and visionary.

Rosa

Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 6-9

Rosa Parks was an ordinary woman who became a hero because she "was not going to give in to that which was wrong." A catalyst for the famous Montgomery Bus boycott in Alabama, she turned the nation's attention to a glaring injustice in our society. Powerful illustrations evoke a time before the Civil Rights era and give the reader a glimpse at a person, her impact, and a period in American history.

Visiting Langston

Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 6-9

A young poet anticipates a visit to Langston Hughes' Harlem home with her father. Told in rhythmic language, this appreciation of the poet in words and image may well encourage young readers to seek out Hughes' poems, or perhaps write some of their own.