Knockin' On Wood: Starring Peg Leg Bates 
By Lynne Barasch
Illustrated by Lynne Barasch
9781584301707
Clayton "Peg Leg" Bates was one of the legendary tap dancers of the twentieth century. As a young boy, Clayton loved to dance, but when he lost his left leg in a factory accident at age twelve, no one thought he would ever walk again, let alone dance. But Clayton's musical spirit was still alive. Soon he was dancing using crutches, then a peg leg. Within a short time his peg leg matched the dancing ability of his other leg.
Peg Leg Bates performed throughout the United States and Europe, winning the hearts of audiences with his unique style of dancing. He was an amazing showstopper and an inspiration to everyone he met. With determination and a love of life, he turned misfortune into triumph. His most lasting achievement might just be the extraordinary example he set for us all.
Lynne Barasch’s initial inspiration for Knockin’ on Wood came many years ago when she learned about Peg Leg Bates from her daughter’s tap dance teacher.
Booktalk with author/illustrator Lynne Barasch
- Awards
-
2006-07 South Carolina Children's Book Award Winner
South Carolina Association of School Libraries
Paterson Prize for Books for Young People
"Starred Review"
School Library Journal
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
National Council for the Social Studies/ Children's Book Council
- Interest Level
- Grades 1 - 5
- Reading Level
- Grade 3
- Themes
- Dance, Disability, Discrimination, Dreams & Aspirations, Historical Interest
- Accelerated Reader
- Level: 4.4
Points: .5
Lynne Barasch has written and illustrated several award-winning children's books, including Knockin' on Wood, a Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People and winner of the Paterson Prize for Books for Young People, published by LEE & LOW BOOKS; Radio Rescue, an ALA Notable Children's Book and Texas Bluebonnet Award Masterlist selection; and The Reluctant Flower Girl, an Oppenheim Gold Award winner. Barasch and her family live in New York City. To find out more about Lynne Barasch, visit LynneBarasch.com
