Hands Up!

Praise for Hands Up!

"This book turns the phrase [hands up] on its head to give little ones confidence and pride, culminating in activism."
—USA Today

"In dynamic multi-media art, family, friends, and community fill one African-American girl's life with love. . . . Hands Up! can singularly or simultaneous serve as a kid-friendly preview of growing up, as catalyst for a conversation about the dangers of being black in America, and/or as determined reclamation of a loaded phrase."
—San Francisco Chronicle

“The epitome of #blackgirljoy . . . Empowering.”
—Mashable

* “McDaniel’s debut picture book offers a jubilant paean to a universal, everyday occurrence . . . Spare, deeply expressive mixed-media pictures by Evans feature vivid colors and inventive textures, and they underscore the power of helping hands. . . . An uplifting celebration of advocating for oneself, aiding those in need, and connecting with one’s community.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review

* “This successfully delivers a message of everyday celebration in one simple gesture. As an introduction for children to social activism, this book will serve well. A terrific read-aloud for one-on-one and small group sharing.”
—School Library Journal, starred review

* "Sobering and celebratory both, writer and artist triumphantly assure all audiences, especially young black readers, 'You matter.'" 
—Shelf Awareness, starred review

“A warm and necessary message of empowerment for black children, helping them see that raising their hands is a celebration of their humanity.”
—Kirkus

“A book that highlights the joys of black and brown childhood while it positions very young children as leaders and agents of change.”
—The Horn Book