Born into slavery, William -Doc- Key drew national attention at the end of the 19th century for his training of a purebred Arabian horse, eventually known as Beautiful Jim Key, teaching the animal how to -combine letters to spell words, choose numbers to make sums, find flags to identify states, move clock hands to tell time, and a whole lot more.- Themes of racial injustice and the harsh treatment of animals offer a poignant supplement to the main narrative (-Kindness, kindness, and more kindness, that-s the way,- was how Doc Key described his success with Jim), which has another sturdy complement in Minter-s (Ellen-s Broom) bold linoleum block prints. Though debut author Bowman focuses on Doc-s relationship with Jim, a substantial afterword will leave children eager to learn more about Doc Key-s remarkable life, including his reluctant service work with Confederate forces during the Civil War and his efforts to free the enslaved. Ages 7-12. Author-s agent: Erin Murphy, Erin Murphy Literary. (Sept.)

Starred Review William "Doc" Key's was a life of contradictions and accomplishments. He was born a slave in 1833 but was educated by his master; he served the Confederates during the Civil War, and the Union after he was free; he was a self-trained veterinarian whose liniments and cures were nationally known. But most of all, Doc is remembered for the way he nourished a sickly colt named Jim to life and then taught him to spell and recognize words, do math, and perform numerous other feats. His strategy: positive reinforcement through kindness and rewards, which, at the time, was unknown in the treatment of animals. As the pair traveled, Doc often faced discrimination, particularly in the South, but he quietly championed racial equality by refusing segregated seating at his shows and by performing in many of the country's traditionally white venues. Stunning hand-painted linoleum block print illustrations by Coretta Scott King Award winner Minter are awash with color and light, as from a stained glass window, and capture the nuances of Doc and Jim's life together perfectly. The narrative's quiet tone conveys a sense of respect for Doc's life and legacy, while back matter offers an extended biography, archival photos of Doc and Jim, and source notes. This beautiful picture-book homage to Doc and Jim is nothing short of enthralling.

Gr 2-6 A profile of William "Doc" Key and his relationship with animals, specifically his skilled horse Jim. Key was born a slave in Shelbyville, TN, in the 1830s. After the Civil War, he stayed in Shelbyville and built a veterinary where he sold his homemade remedies, and became very successful. Referred to as "Doc" Key, he traveled extensively while pursuing various entrepreneurial goals. Key eventually trained a clumsy colt named Jim to amaze audiences with his uncanny ability to spell and do math. He donated portions of his proceeds to humane societies and was instrumental in raising awareness for the compassionate treatment of animals. Minter's linoleum block prints, painted with acrylic, add the perfect historic feel to an incredible true story. The extensive back matter will be useful for student reports. VERDICT A solid purchase for most collections with an interest in biographies and animal rights. Jennifer Steib Simmons, Anderson County Library, SC