Magic in Changing Your Stars

In this time-travel adventure, Ailey Benjamin Lane, a gifted dancer, is transported back to 1939 Harlem, where he meets his grandfather and learns the importance of believing in himself and persevering. The story features an all-Black cast and moments infused with Black culture and history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2022
Publisher: Sterling Publishing Co Inc

Eleven-year-old Ailey Benjamin Lane is a gifted dancer who is determined to land the role of the Scarecrow in his school's production of The Wiz. However, when a classmate overshadows him at auditions, Ailey feels discouraged and contemplates giving up dancing. Seeking guidance, he confides in his grandfather, who shares a story from his own past.

As a young boy, Grampa had a passion for tap dancing but faced discouragement from others. Despite the unofficial Mayor of Harlem, Bill Bojangles Robinson, encouraging him to perform, Grampa eventually gave up on his dreams. However, Robinson left him a special pair of tap shoes as a parting gift.

Curious, Ailey tries on the shoes and is transported back to 1930s Harlem. There, he meets a young street tap dancer who turns out to be his grandfather. Ailey believes he can help his grandfather overcome his fears and pursue his dancing dreams, but he must be cautious not to alter the past and risk affecting his future.

The story features an all-Black cast of characters and incorporates many moments infused with Black culture and history. It is a time-travel adventure that has been eagerly awaited by audiences. Through Ailey's journey, the story conveys an empowering message about believing in oneself and persevering, even in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 194 x 130 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781454944041