Tom Feelings was an American artist, cartoonist, children's book illustrator, author, teacher, and activist. Throughout his career, he created works that centered African-American and African experiences and culture. His notable books include To Be a Slave (1968), Jambo Means Hello (1974), and The Middle Passage: White Ships/Black Cargo (1995). These works demonstrate his commitment to bringing African and African-American history and culture to readers, particularly young audiences.