SHAMAR KNIGHT-JUSTICE is based in Atlanta, Georgia and currently the Chief Academic Officer of Ethos Classical, a K-6 school focused on the intersection of joy, rigor, and the humanity of its students. In his work, he uses different mediums to build interest in his characters, and add complexity to their personalities. He intentionally highlights Black and Brown children in his work because he believes that the fullness of their identities should be displayed, and are often overlooked in picture books. His forthcoming book, MELODIES OF THE WEARY BLUES, is an illustrated anthology that introduces Langston Hughes’s  The Weary Blues  to a younger audience.

 His second published book, BIG TUNE, received starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly. His third published book, REPEAT AFTER ME, made it on the New York Times Best-Sellers List.

 Shamar was also the Grand Prize portfolio showcase winner of SCBWI’s 2022 winter conference, and an inaugural recipient of their OMA award. Since publication, he has been commissioned for work by American Greetings, HarperCollins, Penguin Random House, Scholastic, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and Heinemann Publishing.

MELODIES OF THE WEARY BLUES:  Classic Poems Illustrated for Young People

A gorgeously illustrated centennial of Langston Hughes’ first book of poetry,  The Weary Blues , this picture book includes select poems paired with vibrant artwork by more than twenty talented Black illustrators, including award-winners Oge Mora, Frank Morrison, Janelle Washington, and more!

Brought to new life by lively illustrations on every page,  Melodies of The Weary Blues introduces Langston Hughes’ intimate reflections on the Black experience in America to young readers in a fresh and approachable way. Featuring poems like “Dream Variation,” “Winter Moon,” and “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” Hughes’ still resonant words shine like never before for readers everywhere. 

Includes an introduction by the editor, Shamar Knight-Justice, Langston Hughes’ biography and timeline of life, and biographies of all the contributors.