From the preface of the book: "To the present time, there has been no collection of stories and poems by Negro writers, which colored children could read with interest and pleasure and in which they could find a mirror of the traditions and aspirations of their race." This reader from 1920 is a collection of writings by an impressive line-up of African-American writers, activists, and educators. "It is the hope that this little book will find a large welcome in all sections of the country and will bring good cheer and encouragement to the young readers who have so largely the fortunes of their race in their own hands." - Summary by kathrinee and the editors.