Additional information
by Alliah L. Agostini (Author), Shamar Knight-Justice (Illustrator)
An exuberant picture book written by Alliah L. Agostini and illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice is about a Black boy with big dancing dreams who learns the meaning of courage and community.
It's the weekend, first in June; speaker's blasting out big tune!Cousins, aunties, uncles, friends pack the house, and fun begins. Shane is shy but loves to dance--and all year long, he's picked up cans
to earn some money toward his goal: high-tops with a pump-up sole. But then the speaker blows--it's done! Will this stop his family's fun?
Can Shane come through to save the day and bring back Big Tune Saturday? Set within a vibrant Caribbean American neighborhood and told to a rhythmic beat, Big Tune is a story of Black boy joy that touches on determination, confidence to express who you are, selflessness, and community gratitude.
Author Biography
Alliah L. Agostini grew up an avid reader in a cross-cultural African-American and Guyanese household in Buffalo, NY. After pursuing a career marketing everything from beauty and personal care to home decor, motherhood helped her return to her first love: children's literature.
Now an author and speaker, Alliah has spoken at schools, libraries, corporations, and on several podcasts. She is also the author of the acclaimed The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States. Alliah and her work have been highlighted on the TODAY Show, CNN, WashingtonPost.com, Good Housekeeping, and more. Alliah writes to spread joy, truth, and to help more children see themselves reflected on the page. She and her family live in the suburbs of New York City, where she enjoys impromptu dance parties, museum hopping, and summer festival season. Big Tune is her debut fiction picture book. Shamar Knight-Justice is an illustrator based in Atlanta, Georgia. He grew up with a crayon in his hand and a love for patterns. He currently serves as the principal of an elementary school in Southwest Atlanta, where his scholars' stories and personalities inspire him to create illustrations that honor their identities. When not drawing, Shamar loves to spend time hoarding collage materials, going on long walks with his family, and devouring the nearest pancake.
Number of Pages: 40
Dimensions: 0.39 x 11.02 x 8.58 IN
Illustrated: Yes
Publication Date: March 28, 2023
