Long ago in Cuba, young Millo dreamed of becoming a drummer. But women on the island were not allowed to play drums so she had to keep drumming and dreaming alone. It’s a girl power story about perseverance and breaking barriers.
It was so exciting to see my illustrations for this story and Margarita Engle’s stirring text come to life through the amazing animation talents of Ryan Swenar and Dreamscape. This week we found out that Millo did it again and brought home the 2017 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music. Carnegie Medal Notable Children’s Videos Committee Chair Joanna K. Fabicon said, “Thoughtful animation enlivens illustrator Rafael López’s lush, colorful landscape, creating a joyful celebration of art, music, and self-determination”. “The pulsing rhythm of this vibrant film will inspire all viewers to pursue the passion of their heart and dance to the beat of their own drum.”