Mirandy and Brother Wind is a picture book that is also considered historical fiction. This book is specific, in that it deals with one type of culture, African American. The story is set in the early 1900’s. Mirandy, the main character, seems to be around 11 or 12 years old. She is trying to catch the wind to be her partner at a cakewalk (dance contest). After several attempts and no encouragement from a boy named Ezel, she catches the wind. That evening a few of the girls make fun of Ezel, who is thought to be clumsy. Although Mirandy had hoped to dance with Brother Wind, she asks the wind to help her and her new partner, Ezel, to win the cakewalk because of her concern for Ezel. The illustrations by Jerry Pinkney are beautifully done. Vibrant colors are used with soft overtones to create the movement from "brother wind". This book demonstrates one of the many earlier traditions, dancing the cake walk, from the African American culture. This is explained in the notes of the author. McKissack writes with some dialect that is true to the culture and the time period. In the classroom, these topics can be discussed along with what the children think a cakewalk might be. A science lesson on the wind and other elements can be taught in combination with this book. Mirandy and Brother Wind is a wonderful story to read to any age group.