Jump In Studio – Shadra Strickland, Illustrator

Shadra Strickland is an award-winning illustrator, author, and educator.

Here Comes the Band

Written by Shadra Strickland illustrated by John Holyfield

Everyone has their favorite part of a football game, but at a historically Black college or university, halftime is game time when the band takes the field in this glorious celebration of the tradition and pageantry of an HBCU band.

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Gifts From Crows

Written by Gideon Sterer illustrated by Shadra Strickland

Based on the true story of a girl and the crows in her backyard, this adventure explores the mysteries of friendship across species. Creative nonfiction at its best by bestselling creators Gideon Sterer and Shadra Strickland.

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More books illustrated by Shadra Strickland

Middle grade & YA

CUNY TV Interview

October 1, 2026

I had the immense honor of being interviewed by Carole Jenkins at CUNY TV’s Black America. We talked all things HBCU bands! Check it out!

3 Stars for HERE COMES THE BAND

September 24, 2026

My second authored book comes out next week. It has received three starred reviews so far! I try not to get too excited about reviews because chasing stars isn’t the

GIFTS FROM CROWS is a JLG Gold Standard Selection

April 23, 2026

More great book news! Junior Library Guild has also selected GIFTS FROM CROWS as a Gold Standard Selection prior to publication. I had so much fun illustrating this book. It