The Hired Hand (picture book)

The Hired Hand: An African-American Folktale is a 1997 book by Robert D. San Souci and illustrator Jerry Pinkney based on an African American folktale about an itinerant worker who is able to rejuvenate and resurrect people.

Reception
A review of The Hired Hand by Booklist wrote "He [Pinkney] successfully blends historically realistic details with timeless folkloric magic, and he enhances San Souci's smooth retelling in the process. An obvious choice for primary story hours, this will also make a welcome addition to African American folklore and history units.".

The Hired Hand has also been reviewed by Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, and The Horn Book Magazine.

Awards

 * 1997 Aesop Prize - winner
 * 1997 CCBC Choice
 * 1997 Commonwealth Club of California Book Award: Juvenile - Silver
 * 1997 New York Times Best Illustrated Books