Who Will I Be, Lord?

A young girl reflects on her family history and the various careers her relatives have pursued. Through family stories and memories, she learns about the paths taken by her great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents. The narrative moves through different time periods as the protagonist discovers how her family members found their callings - from preaching to teaching to music and beyond. She considers these examples while wondering about her own future path. This picture book explores themes of family legacy, self-discovery, and the search for purpose. It presents an multigenerational story about finding one's place in the world while honoring family traditions and individual dreams.

Readers appreciate how this children's book shows diverse career paths through family history while exploring identity and aspirations. Parents note it sparks meaningful conversations with children about their own futures and family legacies. Liked: - Illustrations that depict multiple generations and occupations - Message about following one's own path - Representation of Black families and professionals - Religious elements woven naturally into the story Disliked: - Some found the spiritual/religious focus too prominent - Several readers wanted more depth to the storyline Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (227 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (32 ratings) Reader Comments: "Perfect for career day discussions" - Elementary teacher on Amazon "The questions posed help children think about their own gifts" - Parent reviewer on Goodreads "Would have preferred less emphasis on prayer" - Librarian on Goodreads

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✦ Author Vaunda Micheaux Nelson based this children's book on her own family history, drawing inspiration from relatives who worked as teachers, musicians, and entrepreneurs. ✦ The book's protagonist traces her family's achievements through multiple generations, highlighting African American success stories from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s. ✦ Nelson has worked as a librarian for over 30 years, specializing in children's literature at public libraries in New Mexico. ✦ The illustrator, Sean Qualls, is known for his unique mixed-media artistic style that combines painting, drawing, and collage techniques. ✦ The book received recognition from the Charlotte Zolotow Award committee, which honors outstanding writing in picture books.