Michele Wood's paintings are based on her family's early 20th century sharecropping experiences in the southern U.S.A. Containing patterns reminiscent of African textiles, Ms. Wood's works are distinctive and intriguing. Toyomi Igus's interpretations of Wood's reflections on her journey home accompany 18 works reproduced in full color. Igus's comments serve as invitations to look closely at Wood's paintings. Both have appeal for and are accessible to children. Honor Book, 1996 CCBC Coretta Scott King Award Discussion: Illustrator (Ages 9-12)

More than half a century after her family moved North to find a better life, artist Michele Wood returned to the South to see and experience the land where her ancestors lived, struggled, and thrived.

In Going Back Home, Michele presents a series of paintings inspired by this personal journey. Through her complex and richly patterned art, Michele places herself back in history, imagining her ancestors' struggles to overcome hardship through family love and community.