Your Legacy is a proud, empowering picture book introduction to African American history that celebrates and honors enslaved ancestors from author Schele Williams and illustrator Tonya Engel.Your story begins in Africa. Your African ancestors defied the odds and survived 400 years of slavery in America and passed down an extraordinary legacy to you. Beginning in Africa before 1619,
Your Legacy presents an unprecedentedly accessible, empowering, and proud introduction to African American history for children. While your ancestors’ freedom was taken from them, their spirit was not; this book celebrates their accomplishments, acknowledges their sacrifices, and defines how they are remembered—and how their stories should be taught.
“We are grateful to Schele and her dedication to making our beautiful history accessible to our children! Your Legacy is an educational and celebratory piece we’ve enjoyed sharing with our family. We are extremely excited for this story to be shared with other families as we continue to celebrate our rich history in this world.” —New York Times bestselling authors Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union Wade
This powerful and uplifting picture book redefines how African American history is introduced to young readers.
Four starred reviews: "A truly powerful perspective shift."* I "Joyous."** I "Outstanding.""*** I "A strikingly worthy introduction of 400 years of Black history to young readers."****
Beginning in Africa before 1619, this beautifully illustrated narrative honors the strength, resilience, and brilliance of enslaved ancestors—offering young people a proud and empowering foundation for understanding their heritage.
Author Schele Williams and illustrator Tonya Engel guide readers through centuries of courage and survival, celebrating the extraordinary legacy passed down through generations. With poetic language and evocative art, the book reframes history not as a story of victimhood, but as a testament to perseverance, dignity, and cultural richness.
Perfect for classrooms, family reading, and community discussions, Your Legacy invites children to see themselves as part of a lineage of strength and possibility. It’s a bold reclaiming of the past—and a hopeful vision for the future.
Youn ancestors passed down the best of themselves—that is your legacy.
*Kirkus I **Booklist I ***School Library Journal I ****Publishers Weekly
