In 2002, internationally acclaimed, legendary author Virginia Hamilton passed away. In an appropriate memorial to her, The People Could Fly: Picture Book was create in 2004. The People Could Fly is one of Virginia Hamilton’s 24 tales in The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales, first published in 1985. With new illustrations by Leo and Diane Dillon, Virginia’s legacy will continue. This is a tale about how Africans had the magic to fly to escape the sadness and starvation of life on a plantation. When the Africans were captured and sold for the slave trade they had to leave their wings behind because there was not enough room on the crowded, disease stricken ships. One day a slave named Toby revealed that he still had his wings and helps woman and a young baby fly away from the brutal, sad, starving conditions. Eventually Toby shows all of the slaves that they too can fly away from the plantation. As the slaves fly to freedom, the overseer, master, and other onlookers stand amazed and in disbelief. - CW Elementary Teacher