Walter Dean Myers’ terrific storytelling skillfully preserves the past and brings it to life in his new young adult novel, JUBA! A Novel.  A New York Times bestselling author, (MONSTER, BAD BOY), Myers’ newest literary pursuit is an instant timeless narrative that focuses William Henry Lane, an actual dancer in the heart of 19^th century New York City. Lane, affectionately known as “Master Juba,” was an incredibly talented young black dancer whose work made him a pioneer in the meteoric rise of today’s tap, jazz, and step dancing.  Despite the high racial tensions, temperament and prejudice at the time --- it was nearly impossible to become a successful black entertainer --- Juba persevered in his career.

"JUBA! gracefully advocates some beautiful ideas, including not giving up, believing in oneself and chasing after dreams…. I would strongly encourage fans of history and those who enjoy learning about different cultures to read this book. "

JUBA! is highly enjoyable in a variety of ways. Its compelling storyline is told through a first-person account and digs into the experiences, thoughts, and feelings of an individual living at a time where he is considered a “third class citizen.” Another amazing feature of JUBA! is Myers’ incredible knack for meticulous research. The book is enhanced with actual maps, photographs and images pertaining to the story, and they become a vivid reminder that these events actually took place.  In addition, these representations allowed me to put faces to names, visualize certain locations and understand the story’s significance.

JUBA! gracefully advocates some beautiful ideas, including not giving up, believing in oneself and chasing after dreams. With its touching afterword by Myers’s wife about her husband’s writing process, I have nothing short of admiration for this project. I would strongly encourage fans of history and those who enjoy learning about different cultures to read this book.