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