Big Tune: Rise of the Dancehall Prince

An exuberant picture book written by Alliah L. Agostini and illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice is about a Black boy with big dancing dreams who learns the meaning of courage and community.




It’s the weekend, first in June; speaker’s blasting out big tune!

Cousins, aunties, uncles, friends pack the house, and fun begins.




Shane is shy but loves to dance―and all year long, he’s picked up cans

to earn some money toward his goal: high-tops with a pump-up sole.




But then the speaker blows―it’s done! Will this stop his family’s fun?

Can Shane come through to save the day and bring back Big Tune Saturday?




Set within a vibrant Caribbean American neighborhood and told to a rhythmic beat, Big Tune is a story of Black boy joy that touches on determination, confidence to express who you are, selflessness, and community gratitude.