And We Rise

Ages 12 And Up, Grades 7 And Up

A powerful, impactful, eye-opening journey that explores through the Civil Rights Movement in 1950s-1960s America in spare and evocative verse, with historical photos interspersed throughout.

In stunning verse and vivid use of white space, Erica Martin's debut poetry collection walks readers through the Civil Rights Movement—from the well-documented events that shaped the nation’s treatment of Black people, beginning with the "Separate but Equal" ruling—and introduces lesser-known figures and moments that were just as crucial to the Movement and our nation's centuries-long fight for justice and equality.

A poignant, powerful, all-too-timely collection that is both a vital history lesson and much-needed conversation starter in our modern world. Complete with historical photographs, author's note, chronology of events, research, and sources.

* "The use of negative space and the occasional implementation of different fonts or concrete poetry impacts the narrative, like the visuals in a picture book. A powerful, necessary book." -SLJ, starred review

* "This powerful collection of poems serves not only as a history lesson but also a conversation starter. A a call to action which compels readers to make a difference by starting with themselves." -SLC, starred review

"Striking. A combination of free verse, effortless rhymes, and precise word placement evoke nuanced settings and trigger deep emotional responses. A strong, historically accurate collection that can enhance any social studies or language arts unit. More important, audiences will appreciate these poems that leap off the pages, bringing history, pain, dignity, and fierce determination to life." -Booklist

About the Author

Erica Martin (ericamartinthewriterdotcom.wordpress.com) is a freelance editor, specializing in copyediting and developmental editing, and a poet. She has always been fascinated by English, writing, and US History. And We Rise is her first book. She lives with her family in Tennessee. Follow Erica on Twitter @ericaeditor or on Instagram @erica.martin.writes.