Title: Knockin' on Wood

Author: Lynne Barasch

Publisher: Lee & Low Books Inc.

Publication Date: 2004

Genre: Nonfiction Picture Book

Audience: 2-4 grade

Overview: This story is about a "Peg Leg" Bates, a famous tap dancer of the twentieth century. Bates, an active, dancing child lost is leg in an accident when he was young. That stopped him from dancing all day and night. His uncle made him a fake leg (peg leg) in which he began to walk on. After he became more comfortable he began to dance again, letting nothing get in his way. However, Bates danced during the times of segregation. He could only dance in certain shows, which did not allow him to be seen by many. As "Peg Leg" got better and became more popular he began to travel, and slowly worked his way into performances with white dancers. He never stopped dancing even though he had lost his leg.

Activity: This book could be used for several activities. Because "Peg Leg" was a real person, a lesson involving the discussion of life in the twentieth century and times of segregation and racism. The book could also be used in an activity of overcoming obstacles. Do you know anyone that has been injured on stopped from doing something they love? Did he/she find a way to get back to it?

Reviewer's Name: Emily Trees