The Dreamkeepers: Effective Teachers of African American Children is a groundbreaking book that provides a comprehensive overview of the qualities, skills, and dispositions of culturally relevant teachers and teaching.

Written by Ladson-Billings (2009), this book offers a foundational study that informs the work of culturally-relevant and culturally-sustaining teaching.

The author describes effective teachers who are able to draw from the cultural wealth, knowledges, and heritage of Black communities, ensuring that their Black students are academically successful, retained, and grow both in terms of their cultural competence and their sociopolitical awareness. The book includes narratives related to how the race of particular E–12 teachers positively impact the lives of their students, providing a unique perspective on the impact of culturally relevant teaching practices.

The author highlights the importance of pedagogical and relational dispositions, which have lifelong impacts on the academic and social lives of students. This book is a must-read for educators, researchers, and policymakers who are interested in promoting equity and excellence in education.

By drawing on the experiences of effective teachers and their students, The Dreamkeepers provides practical insights and strategies for creating inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments.