Seven Spools of Thread

by Angela Shelf Medearis Illustrated by Daniel Minter

In an African village live seven brothers who make family life miserable with their constant fighting. When their father dies, he leaves an unusual will: by sundown, the brothers must make gold out of seven spools of thread. If they fail, they will be turned out as beggars.

Using the Nguzo Saba, or "seven principles" of Kwanzaa, the author has created an unforgettable story that shows how family members can pull together, for their own good and the good of the entire community.

Magnificent and inspiring linoleum block prints by Daniel Minter, who lives in New York, bring joy to this Kwanzaa cerebration. Ms. Medearis, who lives in Texas, is the author of many fine books for children.

Ages: 8, 7, 9, 10
Interest Level: Grades 2 - 5
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company
Number of Pages: 40
Genre: Legends and Myths, Fables, Folk Tales and Myths

About the Author and Illustrator

Angela Shelf Medearis Children's author Angela Shelf Medearis started writing to make sure young African Americans could see themselves reflected in the books they read. Medearis currently directs Book Boosters, a multicultural program that concentrates on the reading of creative writing and drama.

Daniel Minter