Juba!

Published posthumously, Myers’s final novel is based on the life of Master Juba, born William Henry Lane in Providence, R.I., around 1825, who became a highly successful performer. Peopled by both historical and fictional characters, the book tells the unusual story of a free black man in the 19th century with a gift and passion for dance. So noteworthy that Charles Dickens interviewed and wrote about him, Juba is presented as a thoughtful, proud young man who means well and works hard; Myers gives him a direct and sympathetic voice, depicting the struggles and successes of his short life in the Five Points neighborhood of New York City, and later in London, with warmth and convincing detail. Relationships between blacks and whites are sensitively portrayed, and issues of race are treated frankly, both in dialogue and in Juba’s reflections. Photographs, reproductions of advertisements and reviews of Juba’s performances, and documents such as Juba’s death certificate add atmosphere and authenticity to this rich story; a closing note by Myers’s wife provides background on the author’s research process and distinguishes the historical characters from the fictional. Ages 13–up. Agent: Miriam Altshuler, Miriam Altshuler Literary Agency. (Oct.)