Small Shoes, Big Steps
Sixty years ago first graders Leona Tate, Tessie Prevost, and Gail Etienne, escorted by U.S. Marshals, made history by bravely entering the previously all-white McDonogh 19 Elementary School amidst ugly protests. Their story is the subject of my new book project, Small Shoes, Big Steps. The McDonogh Three (as they came to be called) were the first to desegregate Louisiana schools, entering McDonogh ten minutes prior to Ruby Bridges across town at William Frantz Elementary. November 14, 2021, marks the 61st Anniversary of this landmark day in New Orleans.
A Bronc Buster Bucks Bigotry
⭑ “A champion indeed.” —Kirkus
⭑ “Enthralling.” —Booklist
⭑ “Rollicking language and gorgeous art.”
—School Library Journal
⭑ “A triumphant tale of fairness
trumping prejudice.” —Publishers Weekly
Western Writers of America
2020 Spur Award Winner: Best Western Storyteller
2020 Will Rogers Medallion Award Winner: Western Nonfiction/Young Readers Illustrated Book
American Library Association
2020 Notable Children’s Book
