Johnson has created an amazing story of two young girls and the role they played in the civil rights movement. Velasquez's black and white illustrations, with only the hint of red color every so often, perfectly accent this story of one of many of the unknown heroes that helped play a role in a powerful part of American history. The story is simple, but the feelings that are portrayed are as complex as the actual event that it covers. This is a must have for the classroom or personal library. Not only great for February and Black History month, or not only great for American history class, this is a book that just is a moving and wonderful piece of literature.

There's a sweet, sweet smell in the air as two young girls sneak out of their house, down the street, and across town to where men and women are gathered, ready to march for freedom and justice. Inspired by countless children and young adults who took a stand, two Coretta Scott King honorees offer a heart-lifting glimpse of children's roles in the civil rights movement.

"The pervasive smell of roses is an effective metaphor for the scent of freedom in the air, and Johnson's poetic text is powerful."

-- Horn Book

"This book is not only about segregation; it's also about the crowds of people 'walking our way toward freedom,' the thrilling portrait of Dr. King, and the two brave kids who cross the line."-- Booklist

"Powerful and moving."

-- Kirkus Reviews

Angela Johnson is the author of the Coretta Scott King Honor picture book When I Am Old with You; as well as A Sweet Smell of Roses, illustrated by Eric Velasquez; Just Like Josh Gibson, illustrated by Beth Peck; and I Dream of Trains, which was also illustrated by Loren Long. She has won three Coretta Scott King Awards, one each for her novels Heaven, Toning the Sweep, and The First Part Last. In recognition of her outstanding talent, Angela was named a 2003 MacArthur Fellow. She lives in Kent, Ohio.

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Distributor: Simon & Schuster
Publication Date: 12-26-2007
Pages: 32
Measurements: 10in X 11in X 6.02oz