Kwame Alexander is an Emmy Award-winning producer, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of over forty books, including the Newbery Medal-winning novel The Crossover; the Caldecott Medal- and Newbery Honor winning picture book The Undefeated; The Door of No Return; and J vs. K, which he co-wrote with Jerry Craft. He invites you to visit him at kwamealexander.com and @kwamealexander.

Kitt Thomas, also known as Katelan, is the #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of Stacey's Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams and Cape by Kevin Johnson. A first-generation St. Lucian American, Kitt is a two-time NAACP Image Award winner and a graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design. Kitt's mission is to celebrate Black culture with their drawings and to encourage inclusion in all forms of art. They live in Cincinnati, Ohio. Kitt invites you to find them on social media at @kitt.thomas.art.

* "In this effervescent chapter book by Alexander. . . Softly rounded illustrations from Thomas (Stacey Speaks Up) emanate charm, accompanying stanzas that provide glimpses into the exuberant life of a self-assured middle schooler readers will wish was their own best friend. Macy's desire to help the library underscores the importance of similar community spaces, culminating in a winning narrative about the power of language and learning to stand up for one's beliefs."--Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "An excellent choice for independent readers and classroom read-alouds. Like Macy, this story is one of a kind."--Booklist, starred review

"Alexander's lyrical free verse paints Macy as relatable and funny and gives each character their own arc, especially her playful and joyous father (perhaps a reflection of the author). Inventive visual design aids in the storytelling, with words stretching, shrinking, and scattering across the page in bursts of motion. Dynamic black-and-white spot illustrations imbue Macy and her world with softness and humor while portraying her as a force to be reckoned with; her initial fears will resonate with readers, who will cheer her each step of the way....Unputdownable."--Kirkus, starred review

"A love letter to school libraries and celebration of creative pursuits."--Horn Book

"This early chapter book in verse has an approachably gentle tone.... Thomas' grayscale sketches of Macy, a joyful, bright-eyed little Black girl, help illuminate the devotion between her and her community. Ultimately, Macy's speech to the school board highlights the importance of books being both mirrors and windows, a message that will surely land with enthusiastic book nerds and perhaps entice reluctant readers."--BCCB