Ellington Was Not a Street

Kadir Nelson (May 15, 1974) is a Los Angeles–based painter, illustrator, and author who is best known for his paintings often featured on the covers of The New Yorker magazine, and album covers for Michael Jackson and Drake. His work is focused on African-American culture and history. The New York Times describes his work as: "sumptuous, deeply affecting work. Nelson’s paintings are drenched in ambience, and often overt symbolism. He has twice been a Caldecott honor recipient and won the 2020 Ca...

Notzake Shange is the author of "Ellington Was Not a Street." This book is a thoughtful work of literary fiction. Readers appreciate Shange's clear voice and sharp insights.

Ntozake Shange was a celebrated playwright and poet whose work explored the experiences of Black women. Her groundbreaking choreopoem, for colored girls who have considered suicide, when the rainbow is enuf, remains a powerful and influential piece. Shange's writing often blended poetry, drama, and prose to create vivid and resonant narratives.