Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery
By Sandra Neil Wallace
The Story
A Black boy growing up in segregated 1940s North Carolina loves to draw everything around him, but becomes a football star instead — until his dream of making art finds its way to him.
Why It's Special
For the kid who draws on every surface they can find, and the kid who dreams of going pro — this true story says both paths can belong to the same person.
- Big idea: A gift you carry quietly can wait years for its moment, but it doesn't disappear.
- Vibes: Reflective, hopeful, and grounded in real history — quiet pride building toward triumph.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy true stories about real people
- are working on believing in a talent others don't yet see
- love drawing and making art of their own
- respond well to stories that connect sports and creativity
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think Ernie didn't know how to make a living as an artist when he was young?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Ernie felt drawing with a stick in the mud instead of on paper?
- Real-life connection: Do you have a sketchbook or something you carry with you everywhere, like Ernie did?
- Imagination: If you followed Ernie around for a day, what do you think he would stop and draw?
- Big ideas: Ernie became a football star but still longed to paint — can you be good at more than one thing you love?
