N.C. A&T Alumnus Reimagines ‘The Weary Blues’ for Its 100th Anniversary

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Feb. 10, 2026) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University alumnus, author and illustrator Shamar Knight-Justice is starting a new chapter as an editor with the release of his 11^th children’s book, “Melodies of the Weary Blues.”

The book, an artistic and cultural tribute to Langston Hughes’ poem, “The Weary Blues,” commemorates the 100-year legacy of Hughes’ piece.

“Melodies of the Weary Blues” features original artwork from more than 20 prominent, award-winning Black illustrators. Highlighting well-known poems like “Dream Variation,” “Winter Moon,” and “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” each page brings Hughes’ words to life through powerful imagery and lively illustrations. The book, released Jan. 20, introduces young readers to Hughes’ work and the Black American experience in an accessible and relatable way.

“There’s just so much beauty in the poetry,” said Knight-Justice, who earned his B.S. in marketing from N.C. A&T in 2010. “We wanted to choose poems that were appropriate for children and then pair that with picture book illustrations to help them understand it.”

As editor, Knight-Justice thoughtfully selected the poems and curated a diverse group of artists, carefully matching each illustrator’s distinct styles to fit the tone and mood of Hughes’ poems to create a visual narrative.

Knight-Justice’s work as an illustrator carries the same level of intentionality when it comes to visual storytelling. Beginning with sketches drawn by hand, he uses unique patterns, textures and vivid colors to inspire Black children to fall in love with literature while allowing them see themselves in everyday experiences like learning how to ride a bike, making friends, overcoming fears and trying new things.

Knight-Justice said he has noticed a stark underrepresentation in books, especially picture books, noting that less that 10% of books published each year include Black characters.

“I’m very passionate about stories that center all the different ways Black children can be Black children,” he said, “and it doesn’t have to be rooted in trauma or pain, but really just looking at the micro-moments of that experience and then being able to create books that kids really see themselves reflected in.”

A mixed media artist, Knight-Justice is chief academic officer at Ethos Classical, a charter school in Atlanta with a mission to help its students “grow in confidence, character, and creativity – ensuring they are prepared for college and a life full of opportunity.” He draws inspiration for his illustrations from the joy, imagination and whimsy of his students, as well as from his 4-year-old son, Caiden.

Knight-Justice credits his education in A&T’s College of Business and Economics with helping him bridge the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship. He said the marketing, promotion and community-building skills he developed continue to shape how he shares his work. This allows him to approach children’s publishing not only as a creative, but as a business owner focused on expanding the reach and impact of his stories.

As he continues to center Black stories through compelling visual narratives and showcasing “micro-moments” of the Black experience, Knight-Justice desires to remain in the world of children’s picture books, eventually journeying into the young adult novel space. He believes picture books have the power to teach everyone – children and adults – about history, traditions and how to manage daily problems, making them equally as important and respectable as books for adult readers.

“Melodies of the Weary Blues” is available through HarperCollins Publishers, online retailers and independent bookstores.