Opal's Greenwood Oasis - by Quraysh Ali Lansana & Najah-Amatullah Hylton (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The year is 1921, and Opal Brown would like to show you around her beautiful neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Filled with busy stores and happy families, Opal also wants you to know that "everyone looks like me."

In both words and illustrations, this carefully researched and historically accurate book allows children to experience the joys and success of Greenwood, one of the most prosperous Black communities of the early 20th Century, an area Booker T. Washington dubbed America's Black Wall Street.

Soon after the day narrated by Opal, Greenwood would be lost in the Tulsa Race Massacre, the worst act of racial violence in American history. As we approach the centennial of that tragic event, children have the opportunity through this book to learn and celebrate all that was built in Greenwood.

Review Quotes

"By creating Opal's Greenwood Oasis and Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre for young people, the authors of two new picture books have reminded us that many who survived the fiery conflagration of 1921 were children at the time.

"These sensitively written, beautifully illustrated books restore this often-elided history while explaining the ensuing tragedy in a manner appropriate for children. Both books lovingly depict the striving, close-knit Greenwood enclave as it appeared on the eve of its destruction.

"The book introduces Opal Brown, a delightful young girl in pigtails who is brimming with pride because she has just learned to ride a bicycle. Sitting on the bike, with the classic wicker errand basket attached to the handlebars, Opal announces she has "just finished third grade" in Greenwood in 1921. Describing her beloved community, she says: "In Greenwood, we have everything we need, and it might surprise you to know that everyone looks like me." As she cycles off on an errand for her mother - her first ride alone - Opal gives us an overview of Greenwood. Black families are preparing food and setting out tables for the annual Memorial Day picnic. The joyous celebration is heartbreaking for adult readers who know of the cataclysm gathering offstage."-New York Times Book Review

"Through her eyes, we experience the richness and Black joy that existed throughout Greenwood . . . Opal's Greenwood Oasis, though a children's book, is a special text for all ages."-The Black Wall Street Times

"In this important picture book for historical fiction collections . . . mixed media illustrations with bright pops of color help to showcase the rich activities of Opal's bustling world."-Foreword Reviews

"Ah, sweet Opal Brown, standing here on the cusp of history."-Marilyn Nelson, author of the Printz and Coretta Scott King Honor Book, A Wreath for Emmett Till

"The care and attention put into this book really highlight the love that everyone involved . . . has for the city of Tulsa, and for the Greenwood District . . . It was an honor to see Greenwood for the first time through Opal's eyes."--Mutually Inclusive

"Readers will be able to experience Opal's world like she is a friend"-Youth Services Book Review

"A beautiful and poignant reminder of the industry, joy and resilience of Black people in America."-Trey Ellis, Peabody and Emmy winning producer of King in the Wilderness and True Justice: Bryan Stevenson's Fight for Equality