Each Wednesday in February, I am highlighting great nonfiction picture books about African-Americans. These posts are my way of marking Black History Month and also part of the Nonfiction Picture Book Challenge organized by Alyson Beecher.
Step Right Up: How Doc and Jim Key Taught the World about Kindness by Donna Janell Bowman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Publisher’s description: A biography of William “Doc” Key, a formerly enslaved man and self-trained veterinarian who taught his horse, Jim, to read, write, and do math, and who together with Jim became a famous traveling performance act and proponent for the humane treatment of animals around the turn of the twentieth century.
My thoughts: Have you ever thought horses are just as smart as humans? This picture book tells the story of a remarkable man, William “Doc” Key and his educated horse, Jim Key, who traveled the country as one of the most popular shows in America. Touching on issues of slavery, segregation and animal cruelty, it is a great addition to historical collections of classrooms and children’s libraries. It would also make a great movie.
Bonus: lots of interesting extra information in the back matter.
“Step Right Up” is also this month’s books in Lisa Rose’s Missing Voice Picture Book discussion group.
Kara Newhouse 
I love any book that teaches about kindness! I have added this to my Goodreads, and I hope my library has it!
Hope you like it, Kellee!