How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee

How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee by Carole Boston Weatherford and Frank Morrison is a powerful and poignant picture book that chronicles the life of MacNolia Cox, the first African American to win the Akron, Ohio, spelling bee in 1936. This achievement led her to compete in the prestigious National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., where she faced discrimination despite her remarkable talent.

The book details her journey from being celebrated as a local hero in Ohio to encountering the harsh realities of segregation once she crossed state lines into Maryland. Discrimination marked every part of her experience—from her treatment on the train and at the hotel, to the way she was treated during the competition itself. Despite this, MacNolia's determination and grace under pressure shine through, capturing the courage it took to participate in such a prestigious event under such difficult circumstances.

Weatherford's storytelling, paired with Morrison's evocative illustrations, brings to life the emotional and social challenges faced by MacNolia, while celebrating her achievement. The book also provides a brief epilogue that follows her life after the spelling bee, adding depth to the story and emphasizing MacNolia's legacy as a trailblazer in the face of adversity. How Do You Spell Unfair? is an inspiring tale of resilience and the impact of prejudice, highlighting the strength it takes to stand up for one's dreams in a world that may not always be fair.