Back Home

Even though eight-year-old Ernestine lives with her family up North, "back home" is Lumberton, North Carolina, the place where she was born and where her mama grew up. From the moment she steps off the train, Ernestine feels right at home in the lush, green countryside, working on the family farm, and spending time with her aunt, uncle, and cousins. This nostalgic, sweetly humorous visit home--based on Gloria Pinkney's own childhood memories--is perfect for intergenerational sharing.Gloria Pinkney was born in Lumberton, North Carolina, where she set her first book, Back Home. While attending high school in Philadelphia, she met her husband, illustrator Jerry Pinkney, who attributed much of his success to her long-standing involvement in his work.

Over the years, Gloria and Jerry collaborated in making quality books for children. She hired his models, assembled costumes, photographed sets, and helped him research. Back Home marked a new collaboration between the Pinkneys--the first book written by Gloria and illustrated by Jerry--the product of a long, happy, and productive partnership.

The Pinkneys have four adult children, all of whom are working in the creative arts.