March 14, 2011 [Providence] Children’s book author Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrator James Ransome will speak about their latest work at a book signing event hosted by The Rhode Island Black Heritage Society.
The event is scheduled to take place Sunday, March 27, 2:00 PM at Roots Café [276 Westminster Street in Providence].
The duo will be available to sign copies of their book, Before There Was Mozart: The Story of Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George. Proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to The Society
The highly-illustrated book details the experiences of Joseph Boulogne, son of a white plantation owner and a black slave, who overcame prejudices to become one of the finest classical musicians in Europe.
Lesa Cline-Ransome, a native of Malden, MA, is the author of seven children’s books. James Ransome is a recipient of the Coretta Scott King Honor Award, as well as the NAACP Image Award for his illustrative work.
“We are excited to host such a fabulous writer,” said Joyce Stevos, president of The Society. “Her latest book is a delightful story that is sure to entertain children and adults alike.”
Rod Luther, who has been playing Jazz and Popular piano in New England and abroad for 20 years, will perform at the gathering.
The family-friendly book signing is the second of five Black History events organized by the Society to raise funds to support its collection of African American artifacts, as well as its lecture series for adults and students. This event is being chaired by Johanna Harris and Judy Barrett Litoff.
Roots Café is a new cultural venue in Downtown Providence. The event, which is sponsored by TD Bank, is free and open to the public.
For information on how to support The Rhode Island Black Heritage Society, please visit www.ribhs.org or call 401-421-0606.
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