April 1, 2021
This appropriately titled picture book aims to encourage self-esteem in young Black readers. From Afros to Zen, this book serves messages of radical Black love and healing. Each letter has its own spread, both capital and lowercase letters appearing on the verso along with a brief statement that expands on the featured word; opposite is a full-page picture that illustrates it, often expanding the affirmation with its visuals. The Afro picture, for instance, is illustrated by a picture of three Black kids, two in dresses and one in shorts, each wearing their Afros slightly differently--in puffs, with a bow, or unrestrained. They perch on the backs of classroom chairs in front of a chalkboard on which is written diagrams and mathematical equations: These kids take pride in their hair and their brains. Insider knowledge is assumed; "H is for HBCU," for instance, with no explanation of the initialism deemed necessary. Also understood is the need for affirmation in an unjust world. The "J is for Justice" spread features an illustration of a child holding the scales of justice, the names of Black people who've died at the hands of police superimposed on their Afro. The painterly illustrations are sprightly and warm, with rich browns, golden yellows, and deep greens giving a hip, earthy feel that corresponds well with the text. (This book was reviewed digitally with 9-by-18-inch double-page spreads viewed at 52.2% of actual size.) Determined, joyous, and necessary. (Picture book. 4-8)
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May 1, 2021
Grades K-3 In this uplifting alphabet book, each letter links to an affirming statement about an aspect of African American culture, from natural hairstyles and HBCUs to important qualities, such as mindfulness, positive thinking, and the willingness to face challenges. For example, the book opens with "A is for Afro. I am proud of my textured halo. It shows pride in my roots. Each coil creates my crown." Each letter is printed on a cream-colored page, along with its featured word and the positive, poetic sentences that follow. Opposite is a painted, full-page illustration showing Black children involved in a wonderful array of scenes, from heartwarming family moments and awesome educational achievements to iconic images (football players taking a knee) and participation in social justice movements. This is an inspiring picture book to use with children in the early grades who may have questions about current issues regarding self-concept, appearance, and social action. Try this alongside Jeffrey Daniels' Alphabet of Black Cultures (2020) and Karen Beaumont's I Like Myself! (2004).
COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
August 2, 2021
Williams delivers a powerful anthem in this abecedarian picture book, presenting a brief paragraph of affirmations beneath capital and lowercase letters on each left-hand page. Simple prose is both straightforward and exacting, firmly asserting the strength and hope inherent in each child: “R is for Rally. I know when I lift another,/ I am raised, too. I am working to build/ a brighter future for all. Love flows/ in and around my community.” On each right-hand page, Glushkó offers a complementary association in fluid, visible digital brushstrokes: facing “C is for Challenge,” four Black football players take a knee, honoring Colin Kaepernick’s protest against racism and police brutality. With differing hairstyles, skin tones, and abilities, the richly varied Black cast wears T-shirts whose slogans offer even more empowerment: “Education, not incarceration,” “I’m rooting for everybody Black,” and “BLK BOY JOY.” An uplifting homage to Black potential, resilience, and achievement. Ages 4–8.