Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave

Written by: Laban Carrick Hill and Bryan Collier

First line: To us it is just dirt, the ground we walk on.

Why you should read this book: In inspired, poetic language, this is the true story of a slave in the American south who may very well have been the greatest potter of his era. It is also the story of making a clay pot, which may be of more interest to young readers, who may accidentally get a history lesson while reading. Despite his skill and artistry, Dave had no last name, and his legacy only survives because some of his pots, on which he write short poems and signed his name, still survive, and the book includes more historical data at the end of the story.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You don't like beautiful and useful handmade objects.