Bright Stars of Black British History

£16.99
£16.99

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Shortlisted for the Klaus Flugge Prize 2024, this richly illustrated collection presents the extraordinary life stories of fourteen bright stars from Black British history – from Tudor England to modern Britain – and charts their ongoing influence

This important and timely book delves into the life stories of important figures – including Tudor trumpeter John Blanke, storytelling freedom fighter Mary Prince, and Notting Hill Carnival founder Claudia Jones – many of whom are only just beginning to get the recognition that they deserve.

Brought to life through hand-painted illustrations by award-winning illustrator Angela Vives, Bright Stars of Black British History shines a light on the courage, resilience and talent of remarkable individuals who have left a lasting mark on our collective history.
Extent: 160 pp
Format: Quarterbound (no jacket)
Illustrations: 60
Publication date: 2023-09-28
Size: 24.0 x 17.2 cm
ISBN: 9780500652923

Press Reviews

Important and beautiful
Sharna Jackson

The writing is energetic and knowledgeable [and] the remarkable watercolor illustrations beautifully frame the text... A much-needed resource that shines a light on historical figures who deserve to be far more well known
Kirkus Reviews

At first I thought this would be a perfect book for my kids, then as I started reading it I realised, no - this is for everyone!
The Voice

Fascinating
Featured on History Hit with Dan Snow

About the Authors

J.T. Williams is an author and educator specialising in Black British history. She has a Masters in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway University. Her debut children’s book, Lizzie and Belle: Drama and Danger (Farshore) was shortlisted for Foyle's Children's Book of the Year 2022 and for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2023.



Angela Vives is an award-winning illustrator with an MA in children’s book illustration from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK. In 2020 she won the Picture Hooks Winter Comforts competition. She was shortlisted for the Cheltenham Illustration Awards 2019, and longlisted for the World Illustration Awards 2020.

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