Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with ‘Twas the Night B’fore Christmas, a reimagining of Clement C. Moore’s cherished classic. Set on a turn-of-the-century North Carolina farm, this enchanting version features a warm and vibrant Santa, ‘Santy Claus… with skin like molasses, ‘ who brings the spirit of Christmas to an African American family. His joyful call of ‘Giddy-up y’all!’ leads his reindeer across a starlit Southern sky, setting the tone for an unforgettable Christmas Eve.
This heartfelt retelling introduces lively dialect and rich atmospheric detail, painting a vivid tapestry of the era: ‘Like tobacco leaves whipped by a hurricane, ‘ the imagery sweeps readers into a world both nostalgic and fresh. The tender oil paintings, full of radiant warmth, bring life to the story, blending timeless charm with cultural authenticity.
Perfect for ages 3-8 and for all those who hold the spirit of Christmas in their hearts, ‘Twas the Night B’fore Christmas is an invitation to share the joy of togetherness, the wonder of Santy Claus, and the enduring power of tradition. Whether it’s a cherished read-aloud or a treasured gift, this beautifully illustrated book is bound to become a family favorite for generations to come.
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As a child of parents who worked their entire lives in the entertainment industry, the world of imagination came naturally to this biracial artist and author, raised in African-American culture. Melodye devoted her life to working creatively within a multilayered diaspora, influencing her ideas, values, and artistic expressions deeply nestled within the history of American culture.After studying art at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Columbia College, Melodye ventured to live in Barcelona, traveling extensively throughout Europe and Northern Africa. She also spent time as an author/illustrator-in-residence at Jakarta International Schools in Indonesia, further enriching her global perspective.During her 35 years in publishing, Melodye balanced her professional life with a strong commitment to community. She served on boards such as Literacy Chicago, reviewed educational grants for the Illinois Arts Council, and founded the United Foundation for Arts & Technology (UFAT), a 501(c)(3) organization. Amid these achievements, Melodye found the time and energy to raise a family, with two of her three children now creating families of their own.’I continue to live a rich and colorful life, ‘ she says, ‘always viewing that life through the social justice spectrum from which I continually draw creative energy.’Melodye’s work as an author and illustrator has made a lasting impact across generations, with over 28 celebrated titles that highlight diverse stories, voices, and histories, including: – Minnie Saves the Day: The Adventures of Minnie – Leola and the Honeybears: An African-American Retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears – Addy: An American Girl (Original Series, Books 1, 2, and 3) – ‘Twas the Night B’fore Christmas: A Cultural Adaptation Through her beautifully crafted stories and illustrations, Melodye continues to honor traditions, inspire readers of all ages, and bring underrepresented narratives to life.Melodye’s work has earned recognition not only from audiences but also from notable collectors. Whether through literature, illustration, or historically rooted fine art, Melodye’s creative legacy continues to contribute to the ever-evolving tapestry of American art and culture.