Extraordinary Magic

Extraordinary Magic: The Storytelling Life of Virginia Hamilton is a lyrical picture book biography of one of America’s most celebrated children’s book authors, Virginia Hamilton, the first African American to win the Newbery Medal. 

Each poem in this book is anchored by a single word and highlights anecdotes and themes that Hamilton shared in speeches, essays, and interviews. More information on the sources for each poem can be found here - NOTES ON EXTRAORDINARY MAGIC.

Praise for Extraordinary Magic:

"Purchase this lovely picture book biography as an introduction to Hamilton’s work or to encourage future creators. With every page, readers will be inspired to follow their own magic."

–(starred review) School Library Journal

"Both a tribute to Hamilton’s genius and an invitation to those yet to come."

– Kirkus Reviews

" Wisely, Crews concentrates on the aspects of the pioneering writer’s life that will most resonate with her young readers, from the way Hamilton carried a story in her name (Virginia was the state from which her ancestor fled) to watching a storm with her mother to fighting, then making up with, a sister-like cousin. " 

– Booklist

Interviews about EXTRAORDINARY MAGIC:

• Publisher's Weekly Q&A with Book Creators on Honoring Influential Black Figures
• SLJ-On Portraying Virginia Hamilton in EXTRAORDINARY MAGIC
• Mackin Community Newsletter: Nina Crews: Celebrating a Storytelling Life