Praise for Hands Up!
This book turns the phrase [hands up] on its head to give little ones confidence and pride, culminating in activism.
-USA Today
In dynamic multi-media art, family, friends, and community fill one African-American girl's life with love. . . . Hands Up! can singularly or simultaneous serve as a kid-friendly preview of growing up, as catalyst for a conversation about the dangers of being black in America, and/or as determined reclamation of a loaded phrase.
-San Francisco Chronicle
The epitome of #blackgirljoy . . . Empowering.
-Mashable
* McDaniel's debut picture book offers a jubilant paean to a universal, everyday occurrence . . . Spare, deeply expressive mixed-media pictures by Evans feature vivid colors and inventive textures, and they underscore the power of helping hands. . . . An uplifting celebration of advocating for oneself, aiding those in need, and connecting with one's community.
-Publishers Weekly, starred review
* This successfully delivers a message of everyday celebration in one simple gesture. As an introduction for children to social activism, this book will serve well. A terrific read-aloud for one-on-one and small group sharing.
-School Library Journal, starred review
* Sobering and celebratory both, writer and artist triumphantly assure all audiences, especially young black readers, 'You matter.'
-Shelf Awareness, starred review
A warm and necessary message of empowerment for black children, helping them see that raising their hands is a celebration of their humanity.
-Kirkus
A book that highlights the joys of black and brown childhood while it positions very young children as leaders and agents of change.
-The Horn Book
