Michelson's latest book--the story of William Powell and Clearview--the only golf course designed, built and owned by an African-American--was published Jan. 16.
Richard Michelson, owner of R. Michelson Galleries in Northampton, is the author of a new children's book titled "Twice as Good."NORTHAMPTON—Northampton-based children’s author Richard Michelson had good news recently: His book, “Lipman Pike: America’s First Home Run King,” was announced as a National Jewish Book Award Finalist.
But something else made his news twice as good: His latest book--the story of William Powell and Clearview--the only golf course designed, built and owned by an African-American--was published Jan. 16.
The book, “Twice as Good,” sports a jacket comment from President Barack Obama: "Overcoming adversity, Bill [Powell] has written his own chapter in our Nation’s history … and set an important example for succeeding generations."
Powell had been told if he wanted to get ahead in life, he could not simply be as good as the white children, he had to be twice as good; he took this advice to heart.
He dreamed of becoming a professional golfer, but he was often denied the opportunity to play golf because he was African American. Determined, he decided to build his own course and welcome people of all color to play golf.
Michelson has never played golf, so what fascinated him about Powell’s story is the human-interest aspect. “Mr. Powell was denied the right to play golf when he returned from World War II. As he said, ‘Some folks don’t mind me fighting for their freedom, but they sure do mind me sharing their clubhouse,’” the author commented.
But instead of becoming bitter, Willie Powell built his own course—by hand—where everyone was welcome. “He stayed true to his vision while expanding the vision of those around him,” Michelson said. “And he ended up making a difference in this world, even though he never trumpeted his own achievements. He led with a quiet, self-assured grace.”
Fascinated by history, Michelson’s topics often deal with civil rights and racial issues as well as Jewish subjects.
Powell opened Clearview, a fully integrated course, in 1946, a year before Jackie Robinson joined the Dodgers. “I think William Powell definitely belongs in our pantheon of civil rights heroes,” Michelson said.
Emphasizing that it is important that children know that they have the power to make a difference in this world, he said “we all stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us.” By presenting Powell as a child who has decisions to make—and sometimes he gets in trouble—the author hopes readers can identify with Powell personally and realize that they too can change things for the better.
Michelson hopes readers of all ages will learn that they should speak out against injustice and those who do make a difference are regular people who are willing to stand up for what they know to be right. “But most importantly, I hope that the book is just fun to read and makes a good story.”
Michelson’s “Busing Brewster” was one of The New York Times’ 8 Notable Children’s Books of 2010, and his “A is for Abraham: A Jewish Family Alphabet” won the 2009 Sydney Taylor Award Silver Medal from the Association of Jewish Librarians. His “As Good As Anybody: Martin Luther King and Abraham Joshua Heschel’s Amazing March Toward Freedom” won the 2009 Gold Medal.
There was a three-day “Twice as Good” publication party Feb. 2-4 in Canton, Ohio, at the site of the historic course.
Award-winning illustrator Eric Velasquez illustrated “Twice as Good,” which is a hardcover book with 32 pages and a list price of 16.95. Published by Sleeping Bear Press, it is recommended for children age five to 10.
It is available on line and at local independent bookstores.