Hugged by the Night

Spoken-word poet Harold Green III's dazzling picture book is a reassuring lullaby for bedtime fears and an affirmation of the beauty and power of Black identity.As darkness settles over the forest, three animals gaze up at the night sky and wonder how they can be as confident, proud, and fearless as she is. Hearing their wishes, the sky takes the animals into her arms and, with a gentle embrace, bestows upon each a powerful and transformative gift. Harold Green III brings his vibrant poeticism to this new, richly lyrical folktale illustrated with luminous art by South African designer Karabo Poppy.

Harold Green III is an ever-evolving storyteller whose lyrical voice manifests in books, albums, and performances of all kinds, from TEDx Talks to innovative collaborations including one with fatherhood.gov. He is the architect of the artistic collective Flowers for the Living, where Harold performs poetry accompanied by esteemed singers and musicians. A proud son, brother, husband, father, teacher, coach, and mentor, he lives in Chicago with his family. Learn more at haroldandthebeard.com.Karabo Poppy is an illustrator, street artist, and designer. She partners regularly with Nike, including on three sold-out lines of shoes, as well as with other high-profile brands. She lives in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she often admires the night sky.