Awards

• Short-listed for Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award 2006
• Short-listed for Georgia Children's Book Award (Picture Storybook) 2008

Overview

Full Product Details

9780399242304

Table of Contents

Reviews

Michael Jordan was a curious, mischievous little boy who was constantly trying to keep up with his older brother Larry. It seemed as if Larry was always just a little faster, stronger, and more skilled. Michael even tried hanging by his arms in an effort to grow faster. Supported by a strong family and attentive coaches, his own intense determination, and of course his incredible talent, he grew up to be one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Cooper focuses on childhood incidents that display Jordan's strong character, his competitive spirit, his willingness to practice endlessly, and the loving rivalry between the brothers. Cooper's umber-tinted, action-packed illustrations perfectly capture Jordan's determination and achievements, reserving a fold-up page for the magical Air Jordan leap. Having retired several years ago, Jordan still remains a hero of legendary proportions-Cooper keeps the legend alive. (biographical note) (Picture book/biography. 6-12) (Kirkus Reviews)

Author Information

When Floyd Cooper discovered children's book illustrating, he found a way to complement his career in advertising. An apprentice of Mark English, Mr. Cooper began his freelance career while still a student at the University of Oklahoma. After graduating, he made his way to Missouri, where he secured a position at a greeting card company. Although Mr. Cooper was established in his position there, he felt somewhat stifled. He lacked the freedom and opportunity for spontaneity that he longed for as an artist and the joy that could be found in doing something that he loved. Determined to break out of the mundane cycle he found himself in, Mr. Cooper relocated to the East Coast in 1984 to pursue his career further. It was there that he discovered the world of children's book illustrating and was amazed by the opportunities for creativity it afforded. Mr. Cooper was energized. The first book he illustrated, Grandpa's Face, captivated reviewers. Publishers Weekly said of newcomer Floyd Cooper's work, ""Cooper, in his first picture book, creates family scenes of extraordinary illumination. He reinforces in the pictures the feelings of warmth and affection that exist between generations."" Illustrating children's books is very important to Mr. Cooper. He says, ""I feel children are at the frontline in improving society. This might sound a little heavy, but it's true. I feel children's picture books play a role in counteracting all the violence and other negative images conveyed in the media."" Floyd Cooper resides in New Jersey with his wife, Velma, and their two sons.copyright 2000 by Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers. All rights reserved. When Floyd Cooper discovered children's book illustrating, he found a way to complement his career in advertising. An apprentice of Mark English, Mr. Cooper began his freelance career while still a student at the University of Oklahoma. After graduating, he made his way to Missouri, where he secured a position at a greeting card company. Although Mr. Cooper was established in his position there, he felt somewhat stifled. He lacked the freedom and opportunity for spontaneity that he longed for as an artist and the joy that could be found in doing something that he loved. Determined to break out of the mundane cycle he found himself in, Mr. Cooper relocated to the East Coast in 1984 to pursue his career further. It was there that he discovered the world of children's book illustrating and was amazed by the opportunities for creativity it afforded. Mr. Cooper was energized. The first book he illustrated, Grandpa's Face, captivated reviewers. Publishers Weekly said of newcomer Floyd Cooper's work, ""Cooper, in his first picture book, creates family scenes of extraordinary illumination. He reinforces in the pictures the feelings of warmth and affection that exist between generations."" Illustrating children's books is very important to Mr. Cooper. He says, ""I feel children are at the frontline in improving society. This might sound a little heavy, but it's true. I feel children's picture books play a role in counteracting all the violence and other negative images conveyed in the media."" Floyd Cooper resides in New Jersey with his wife, Velma, and their two sons.copyright 2000 by Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers. All rights reserved.

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