“Beautiful, informative, essential.”  ― Kirkus Reviews (STARRED REVIEW) “Highly recommended for libraries that need titles about the ongoing global fight against racism.”  ―  School Library Journal  (STARRED REVIEW) An award-winning picture book biography of Nelson Mandela and his long fight for equality in South Africa. As Nelson Mandela lived and worked under the unjust system of apartheid, his desire for freedom grew.  South Africa separated people by races, oppressing the country’s non-white citizens with abusive laws and cruel restrictions.  Every day filled Mandela with grief and anger, but he also had hope―hope for a nation that belonged to everyone who lived in it. From his work with the African National Congress, to his imprisonment on Robben Island, to his extraordinary rise to the presidency, Nelson Mandela was a rallying force against injustice. This stirring biography from Lindsey McDivitt   explores Mandela’s long fight for equality and the courage that propelled him through decades of struggle. Illustrated by acclaimed artist Charly Palmer in the bold, bright colors of South Africa,  A Plan for the People  captures the spirit of a leader beloved around the world.  Awards A School Library Journal  Best Book of the Year A Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature Best Book of the Year A Children's Book Council (CBC) / National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Notable Social Studies Book Bank Street College Best Children's Books of the Year Gr 2–5—Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison. His mission to fight apartheid in South Africa was fueled by his passion for his people and the determination to dismantle an unjust system. Mandela's conviction led to the creation of the Freedom Charter in 1955 by the African National Congress (ANC). During his years spent in prison, Mandela struggled with the horrible conditions and missed his family. However, he came to realize that at the heart of apartheid was racism, and the only way to counter racism was through love and understanding. Mandela used his time in prison to continue his education, reach out to the white guards, and keep in contact (as best he could) with the outside world. His allies in the ANC made sure he was not forgotten, and he became the symbol for their struggle. As the South African government worked to maintain control, Mandela reached out to government officials. They were surprised by his knowledge of Afrikaans, their history, culture, and his deep understanding of the needs and anxieties of the South African people. Finally free at the age of 71, Mandela helped his country find its way to freedom and democracy. Palmer's powerful paintings complement this inspiring story of sacrifice and loss, devotion and learning, patience and hard work. Time lines, additional information about apartheid, and recommended resources are included. The author and illustrator notes provide further context. VERDICT Highly recommended for libraries that need titles about the ongoing global fight against racism. Mandela's journey makes for a powerful reminder of the ability to change.—Heidi Grange, Summit Elem. Sch., Smithfield, UT Kirkus Reviews  (starred review) “Beautiful, informative, essential.” Booklist “Palmer employs vivid colors and vigorous brushwork that capture his subject’s charisma admirably. . . . Rewarding reading for students of any country or culture afflicted with racial conflicts.” School Library Journal  (starred review) “Highly recommended for libraries that need titles about the ongoing global fight against racism. Mandela’s journey makes for a powerful reminder of the ability to change.” The Horn Book Magazine “By the time the book shows Mandela freed and elected president, the reader is full of admiration for this passionate and talented leader whose dedication earned him the nicknames of Madiba, ‘honored elder’; and Tata, ‘beloved Father of a new country.’ Palmer’s dramatic paintings use dynamic brushstrokes to create engaging portraits of the eminently recognizable Mandela and of the world he influenced.” Lindsey McDivitt  is the author of  Nature's Friend: The Gwen Frostic Story  and  Truth and Honor: The President Ford Story  (both Sleeping Bear). She has written extensively about ageism and the importance of older role models in picture books. Lindsey lives in St. Paul, Minnesota. Follow her on Twitter @AisforAging or visit her website at lindseymcdivitt.com. Charly Palmer  is an acclaimed fine artist, graphic designer, and illustrator. He received the Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe New Talent Illustrator Award for Mama  Africa! How Miriam Makeba Spread Hope with Her Song  (FSG). His other books include  The Teachers March!  (Calkins Creek),  My Rainy Day Rocket Ship  (Simon & Schuster), and  I Can Write the World  (Six Foot). His fine art explores racism, black identity, and activism, and his work has been commissioned for Time magazine, John Legend's album  Bigger Love ,