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A legendary hero. A sinking ship. A celebration of African American oral tradition.
In the rich history of African American storytelling, "toasts" are rhythmic, rhyming narratives passed down through generations. One of the most famous is the tale of Shine, a hardworking Black stoker on the grand RMS Titanic.
In Shine and the Sinking Titanic Retold, author and librarian Vandella Brown brings this legendary folklore to life in a clean, family-friendly adaptation that honors the past while educating the present.
When the great Titanic strikes an iceberg, Shine rushes to warn Captain John Smith, only to be dismissed. Realizing the ship is doomed, Shine relies on his own wit and strength, diving into the freezing Atlantic Ocean to swim his way to freedom. Along his epic journey through the dark waters, Shine refuses to be swayed by the pleas of millionaires or the enticements of sea creatures.
More than just a myth, this beautifully retold story highlights true history and diverse cultures by introducing:
• Joseph Laroche: The real-life Haitian engineer and passenger on the Titanic.
• Len Lam and Lee Ling: Real Chinese passengers who were on board the historical tragedy.
• Mami Wata: The enchanting mermaid of African mythology who tries to lure Shine into the deep.
Perfect for readers interested in Black history, folklore, and poetry, this book reclaims the narrative of the Titanic to include people of color who were historically left out of the legacy.
Raise a glass to victory, courage, and cultural pride. Discover the brilliance of Shine!
In the rich history of African American storytelling, "toasts" are rhythmic, rhyming narratives passed down through generations. One of the most famous is the tale of Shine, a hardworking Black stoker on the grand RMS Titanic.
In Shine and the Sinking Titanic Retold, author and librarian Vandella Brown brings this legendary folklore to life in a clean, family-friendly adaptation that honors the past while educating the present.
When the great Titanic strikes an iceberg, Shine rushes to warn Captain John Smith, only to be dismissed. Realizing the ship is doomed, Shine relies on his own wit and strength, diving into the freezing Atlantic Ocean to swim his way to freedom. Along his epic journey through the dark waters, Shine refuses to be swayed by the pleas of millionaires or the enticements of sea creatures.
More than just a myth, this beautifully retold story highlights true history and diverse cultures by introducing:
• Joseph Laroche: The real-life Haitian engineer and passenger on the Titanic.
• Len Lam and Lee Ling: Real Chinese passengers who were on board the historical tragedy.
• Mami Wata: The enchanting mermaid of African mythology who tries to lure Shine into the deep.
Perfect for readers interested in Black history, folklore, and poetry, this book reclaims the narrative of the Titanic to include people of color who were historically left out of the legacy.
Raise a glass to victory, courage, and cultural pride. Discover the brilliance of Shine!