About This Book

Clap your hands and tip your hat as the astonishing "Mr. Bojangles" gracefully leaps across each page and wins the hearts of people everywhere. With a simple rhyming text and bold, graceful illustrations, the Dillons have created a read-aloud picture book perfect for even the youngest children.

Readers will be clapping and tapping along as they follow the dancer through the streets of old New York. As they arrive at the last spread of the book, they'll learn the name of this great talent — Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, the groundbreaking African-American tap dancer who was one of the most popular entertainers of the early 20th century. The Dillons have also included an afterword so that readers can learn more about this legendary performer.

* "Spectacular, clear design . . . . This jazzy introduction to an important contributor to American culture will entrance the youngest music and dance fans."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* "The Dillons cleverly depict Robinson's fast-flying feet with varying shades of the same color around his legs, creating a sense of movement with a shadow/silhouette effect."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

About the Authors or Illustrators

Diane Dillon

Artist Diane Dillon is renowned for the enormous body of work she has produced with her husband and collaborator, Leo Dillon.

Read more >

Leo Dillon

Among Leo Dillon's many honors, he and his wife have received two Caldecott Medals, for Ashanti to Zulu and Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears, four New York Times Best Illustrated Awards, four Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, two Coretta Scott King Awards, two Coretta Scott King Honors, and the Society of Illustrators Gold Medal.

Read more >