Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories

A Tall Tale Based on the Life and Work of Zora Neale Hurston

Illustrated by Raissa Figueroa On Tour
$18.99 US
Penguin Young Readers | Viking Books for Young Readers
24 per carton
On sale Jan 13, 2026 | 9780593404898
Age 4-8 years
Sales rights: World

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A tall tale inspired by the life and works of American writer, folklorist, and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston

Small-girl Zora knows her stories are going to change the world. Although her neighbors might not believe her outlandish tales, she's sure they're the key to ending the drought in her town. If she can make people laugh at her stories, she'll be able to gather enough tears to bring back her mama's garden and more. But when things don't go exactly as planned, Zora learns that with creativity, determination, and faith, a little magic might be possible.

Filled to the brim with references to Zora Neale Hurston's classic characters and details from her own life, Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories is a joyful tribute to an icon of American literature and the everlasting power of storytelling.
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Praise for Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories:

★ “It’s a delight seeing Black history that doesn’t focus on oppression; instead, it’s about the power of imagination and the worth of the written word… an immensely ­engrossing ­historical ­story, perfect for ­introducing ­elementary readers to past visionaries and locations.” School Library Journal, starred review

About

A tall tale inspired by the life and works of American writer, folklorist, and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston

Small-girl Zora knows her stories are going to change the world. Although her neighbors might not believe her outlandish tales, she's sure they're the key to ending the drought in her town. If she can make people laugh at her stories, she'll be able to gather enough tears to bring back her mama's garden and more. But when things don't go exactly as planned, Zora learns that with creativity, determination, and faith, a little magic might be possible.

Filled to the brim with references to Zora Neale Hurston's classic characters and details from her own life, Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories is a joyful tribute to an icon of American literature and the everlasting power of storytelling.

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Praise

Praise for Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories:

★ “It’s a delight seeing Black history that doesn’t focus on oppression; instead, it’s about the power of imagination and the worth of the written word… an immensely ­engrossing ­historical ­story, perfect for ­introducing ­elementary readers to past visionaries and locations.” School Library Journal, starred review