Interestingly vibrant illustrations, created with watercolor and digital techniques, and strong, reflective text, showcase the possibilities art and cInterestingly vibrant illustrations, created with watercolor and digital techniques, and strong, reflective text, showcase the possibilities art and creativity have to change the world. Focusing on the efforts of Corita Kent, a Catholic nun whose work consisted of a combination of words and images and who encouraged her art students to break the rules, this picture book biography [3.5 for me!] profiles someone not often, if ever, mentioned in history books. And yet, this artist was quite influential. Since she was working during a historical period when the Catholic church and mainstream society was changing, she became a part of the revolution. Although she eventually left the church, she continued to use her own art to highlight issues, encourage change, and offer hope to others. It's impossible to read her story, examine the illustrations, and consider her impact without feeling inspired and energized to carry on her work. The book's title fits its contents perfectly since it's abundantly clear that Corita Kent put her whole heart into her work. Add this title to a collection of artists' biographies as well as one devoted to activists or individuals who have made a difference....more
High schooler Calvin Greene and his parents have fled Chicago for the Pennsylvania suburbs after violence and a tragedy disturbed their quiet lives. SHigh schooler Calvin Greene and his parents have fled Chicago for the Pennsylvania suburbs after violence and a tragedy disturbed their quiet lives. Since the Greenes are white-skinned, they are able to pass for white, even buying a house in a white-only neighborhood, and having Calvin attend the local white school. But his passing comes at a price. As time passes, Calvin becomes increasingly uncomfortable pretending to be someone he isn't, having to rebuff the attentions of a determined neighbor girl, hiding his love for jazz, and watching in horror as Lily, a local Black girl, enters the school and endures systematic bullying. Since the story is set in 1955 after the murder of Emmett Till, who Calvin knew as Bobo back in Chicago, the fictionalized portion has even more resonance, emotion, and relevance, particularly when read through the perspective of today's political climate. The dangers of traveling through certain towns after sundown, the helpfulness of the Green Book, and the fears that caused others in Calvin's circle to remain silent are all covered in this page-turner. There's even a subplot concerning Calvin's older brother, Robert, and the small community he's cobbled together. Calvin is relatable because of his honesty, his mistakes, and how he often fails to realize the consequences of his actions for others. But he's also heroic for those same things. Anyone trying to understand parts of American history and the intricacies of being true to oneself and putting oneself and others in jeopardy and living a lie that promises safety yet means denying part of one's identity will find answers--and some questions--in this engaging, well researched historical fiction title. ...more
As a child of the 'Sixties growing up during the times of JFK, RFK, MLK, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, I've been an outsider to many of the events describedAs a child of the 'Sixties growing up during the times of JFK, RFK, MLK, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, I've been an outsider to many of the events described in this engaging account of various historical moments from the points of view of two political insiders--Doris Kearns Goodwin and her late husband Richard Goodwin. Drawing from memory, notes, diaries, archival material, and interviews with relevant individuals, Goodwin weaves together history, biography, and memoir as she and Dick spend the last years of his life sifting through boxes of memorabilia from that decade. The narrative includes conversations between the two of them while they are reminiscing and sorting out their complicated feelings about JFK and LBJ, for whom Dick wrote speeches while Doris served as a White House Fellow and later wrote LBJ's biography. It's clear that the 1960s were a turbulent time, but they also were a period filled with possibility and promise with various civil rights legislation being passed by Congress, successful space travel, and youth feeling as though they could make a difference and be heard. Because so much of what was good about that time period was overshadowed by violence at home and abroad in Vietnam, it's easy to see how Dick could have become disheartened. But as this book shows, his was an unfinished love story with politics, and as it turned out, both Dick and Doris emerge from their labors with a renewed appreciation of those times as well as hope for the future. Readers trying to make sense of present-day politics will gain insight by reading this book, clearly a labor of love from a thoughtful historian who manages to simplify complex processes and unravel some of the mysteries behind complex individuals. Clearly, in their heyday, this was one heck of a power couple. I enjoyed every word, laughed at times, cried at times, and felt terribly nostalgic for that decade. ...more
This may well be the best work yet from both of these creative individuals. Weatherford has many biographies under her belt, and each one seems to be This may well be the best work yet from both of these creative individuals. Weatherford has many biographies under her belt, and each one seems to be written in a slightly different style that fits the subject. In her latest biography, she crafts lyrical lines, partly her own and partly his, interwoven with snippets of spirituals, to immerse readers in the life and times of Paul Robeson, who seems to have been a jack of all trades and master of many, maybe all, of them. Since his story is divided into four acts--Youth, Artist, Activist, and Erased--readers are able to easily chart Robeson's rise and fall as well as the influences that made the man. Earning the distinction of Phi Beta Kappa and All-American football player at Rutgers, Robeson had many talents, among them singing and acting, but traveling and living abroad opened his eyes even further to the economic and social injustices that existed in the United States. When he returned home, he chose to speak out about what was unfair even though doing so inflamed many individuals and eventually cost him his career and popularity. Still, he never looked back or regretted speaking truth to power. Clearly, Robeson was a man ahead of his time. While it's disappointing that he has been neglected by other children's biographers in the past, this particular book makes up for that with its moving portrayal of someone who was larger than life and who used his fame to speak out against injustices in order to foster change and open hearts and minds. Weatherford sums this giant of a man on page 40 with a list of all the labels that might have been hung on him, "Unparalleled" (p. 40) perhaps being the most accurate. Back matter includes a Timeline, Source Notes, Bibliography, and Copyright Acknowledgements, all attesting to the thorough research of the author. The illustrations, rendered in oil, are masterful, moving, and unforgettable, capturing Robeson at various points in this life. From the movie reel projector on the copyright page that seems to shine light on the facing page in honor of how the biography itself shines a light on the man himself and his truths to the final double-page spread of an elderly Robeson, past his prime but clearly still a force to be reckoned with, looking back on all that his eyes have seen. He's dressed in a blue robe and pajamas and holding a coffee cup, and his brown house slippers point to the word "Unparalleled" in the poem "Rockin' Chair." In between those two images, readers are treated to paintings of Robeson at various stages of his life, during stage performances, speaking out, and even in a double-page spread, playing checkers with his father, the man who influenced him so heavily. This is not a biography to be approached casually. The text and artwork prompt reflection and earn Robeson the honor and respect that he deserved. Perhaps some future or current social activists will draw strength from his example and continue the good fight. Add this book to a collection of civil rights figures and those who used their voice for good. ...more
Add this important picture book to a collection about Japanese incarceration camps along with other titles such as So Far from the Sea and Takei's graAdd this important picture book to a collection about Japanese incarceration camps along with other titles such as So Far from the Sea and Takei's graphic memoir for older readers, They Called Us Enemy, which is equally as good as this one. Intended for a younger audience, this book's focus is on young George's experiences in those camps--first at the Santa Anita racetracks, next at Camp Rohwer, Arkansas, and finally at Tule Lake, California. Because the perspective is that of a young child, it is all the more relatable for its intended audience. The narrative leans heavily on the roles his parents played in making camp life endurable and as pleasant as possible under the circumstances. His mother was always trying to spruce up their living spaces, making curtains, braiding rugs, and taking care of the children when they became ill while his father, who spoke English and Japanese fluently, took on a leadership role in the camp communities. Somehow, they found ways to laugh and look forward to being free once again. George even describes befriending a small black dog, Blackie, at one of the camps, and having to leave him behind when the family was finally released. Although Takei puts a positive spin on some of the events described here and the story ends on a hopeful note, he also is quick to point out how the family lost its freedom, its business, and its savings. The back matter is worth a read too since it elaborates on what happened to Japanese Americans during WWII and shares Takei's stirring words given during the 1981 hearings on the imprisonment of Japanese Americans. Created with watercolor, gouache, colored pencil, and digital media, the illustrations are soft in tone, effectively depicting life before the incarceration, the train trips to the camps, the camp settings themselves, and the many individuals who took similar journeys. During this time of polarization in our country and a tendency of some folks to demonize certain groups, Takei's story is exceptionally moving, a cautionary tale for today. ...more
What a fine example this mother is! Narrated by an activist's daughter, this picture book describes the woman as "a mighty storm, like a roaring clashWhat a fine example this mother is! Narrated by an activist's daughter, this picture book describes the woman as "a mighty storm, like a roaring clash of thunder that rolls on" (unpaged), clearly having quite an impact on her daughter and her community. The attractive digital artwork and text showcase her activism as she leads marches in the streets for various causes, links arms with others, but even sometimes as she is the sole marcher. The text also mentions the heritage of activism that has been passed down from generation to generation and how there are those who are unable to march and need others to march for them. This picture book fits in well with a collection devoted to social activism or one honoring those folks who make a difference, but it also effectively explains the motivation that certain individuals have for taking to the streets and march. As important as words may be, standing up and joining forces with others in harmony is much more than symbolic. Actions such as these can make problems visible and hold those in power accountable. ...more
While this YA book covers several important topics, including the broken justice system, families dealing with incarcerated family members both while While this YA book covers several important topics, including the broken justice system, families dealing with incarcerated family members both while they are in prison and after they are released, the death penalty, and interracial relationships, among others, the writing could be stronger, some of the secondary characters developed more, and the conclusion stronger. Covering similar territory as Dear Martin, The Hate U Give, When You Look Like Us, and When They See Us, all of which are more literary, the book will have high teen appeal as it features a relatable protagonist in Tracy Beaumont and scenarios regarding the police with which some will be familiar. An aspiring journalist, Tracy has been writing weekly letters to the Innocence Project for seven years, the amount of time her father has been incarcerated and on Death Row for murder in Texas. While she waits for a response, she leads workshops familiarizing community members with their rights and how to behave when dealing with law enforcement. As her father runs out of time before executed, her track star brother, Jamal, is also accused of murder. Tracy's dogged determination and refusal to remain silent and let things take their course is admirable, and most readers will wish they had someone like her by their side. But some parts of the story are rather murky and improbable, and Angela, the victim, appears so briefly that it's hard to care about her fate, much less know much about her. Maybe that's okay since this isn't her story, but it detracts from the fullness of the narrative. Nevertheless, even with these possible flaws, the book raises important questions and will prompt deep conversations. ...more
This picture book reminds us that if we don't have dreams, what's the point of living? In poetic, expressive lines, Andrea Davis Pinkney describes dreThis picture book reminds us that if we don't have dreams, what's the point of living? In poetic, expressive lines, Andrea Davis Pinkney describes dreams and journeys that intertwine across time, distance, and generations. Ten-year-old Tybre Faw, a young Black boy from Johnson City, Tennessee, learns about civil rights activist John Lewis, is filled with admiration, and dreams of meeting him one day. Lewis himself had plenty of dreams and dedicated his life to making things better for his people. Thanks to his grandmothers' willingness to drive him down to Mississippi, the youngster meets Lewis and joins him and others on a commemorative march in Selma across that infamous Edmund Pettus Bridge. Teachers and young readers in search of stories about young activists and how the fight for civil rights and social justice continues on even today will find a satisfying one here. The repetitive phrase "because of you, John Lewis" takes on a joyous, hymnlike quality as it's woven into the central narrative about this unique friendship. Moving artwork, rendered with watercolor and quill pen and then finished digitally, accompanies the sonorous words in this celebratory text. The book cover, front and back, is equally handsome, paying tribute to an important moment in civil rights history while also seemingly passing the torch to the next generation. ...more
Sometimes troubled times require shocking actions to awaken those around us. And sometimes those actions can change the lives of those who are close tSometimes troubled times require shocking actions to awaken those around us. And sometimes those actions can change the lives of those who are close to the activist. In the case of this YA novel, set in 1969 Czechoslovakia, it is seventeen-year-old Pavol Bartos who sets himself on fire in Prague because he sees only a bleak future for himself and others like him. His death prompts the others in his circle--his pregnant girlfriend Lida and his two friends, Stepan, who is gay, and Tomas, who finds the rules of everyday socialization confusing, to question their next steps and possible futures. While Pavel appears only briefly in the story, his influence is far-reaching, and readers learn more about his character, background, and ambitions through the eyes of his friends. The characters, even Lida's father, Ondrej, are particularly well drawn, complex, and relatable, and their paths forward aren't always smooth, easy or predictable. Moving back and forth in time so that it's clear what has led to some of these decisions, including the reprisals meted out to those who don't obey the harsh rules of the current regime as well as the rewards for walking the party line, the story is fast paced, deeply engaging, and informative. For anyone coming of age in 1969 in the United States, it will bring back some memories of that time period, but for those coming of age today, the story is particularly timely. Questions about repression of certain music and literature and whether it is more effective to try to fight the system from within in order to make a change or leave and start a new life are raised by this well-researched, nuanced, and important book. Teen readers will care deeply about the characters, perhaps relating to one of them, and wonder what they might have done in similar circumstances. ...more
This book, based on first-person interviews and archival research, takes readers inside the lives of three generations of ordinary Mississippi citizenThis book, based on first-person interviews and archival research, takes readers inside the lives of three generations of ordinary Mississippi citizens from 1927 to 1968. Much of the story is written in vignettes or monologues that could easily be adapted for classroom or community performance. This technique is particularly effective in elevating the voices of the three characters and allowing readers to put on their shoes for a time so that they can experience vicariously Jim Crow, the injustices of the time period as well as efforts to make a change through voter registration and delegation recognition at two different Democratic Conventions. The author captures these voices beautifully, and even though they are fictional characters, it's easy to see how much of them is based on actual individuals who lived during this time period. There are also songs, folklore, letters, and news reports. The Littles live on a farm in the rural part of the state where Loretta Little, the first character to speak, joins her family members picking cotton and trying to survive as sharecroppers. Roly, the next speaker, keeps the family farm going even when others become jealous and try to destroy what the Littles have amassed. Aggie B., the third speaker, is the child of Roly and Tess Coles, who leaves the town to find a better life somewhere else. Against all the odds, Aggie and 'Retta, who has Multiple Sclerosis, join the fight for civil rights even while being aware of the heavy price that may be exacted on them and others for daring to stand up against an unfair system. Pinkney's words are lyrical, hypnotic, deeply engaging, and empathetic as she tells a story that is often harsh, sometimes joyous but also ultimately hopeful. There are many ways to approach the civil rights movement and the years preceding it, but this one, firmly rooted in family history and the oral tradition, is particularly compelling and essential for anyone trying to understand part of Black history and how our nation reached its current status. The text is ably supported with lovely artwork, created with paint, ink, and Japanese sumi brushes. It will be difficult for readers to finish this book without having the urge to go tell the story to others. ...more
For young boys and girls, especially boys, with brown or black skin, arguably nothing could be more important than The Talk when their parents, caregiFor young boys and girls, especially boys, with brown or black skin, arguably nothing could be more important than The Talk when their parents, caregivers or siblings must warn them against the racism and judgment lurking in the world as well as providing rules about behavior in certain spaces. Jay, a Black youngster who narrates the story and directly addresses readers, childhood and growing up are cherished times for hanging out with friends, being goofy, and hoping to grow taller. The author has captured the voice of a young boy perfectly with little asides about how he actually likes when his grandmother pinches his cheeks. The soft colors in the digital artwork depict Jay's community and the passage of time while his mother periodically measures his height, knowing that the time is drawing nigh when The Talk will be necessary in order to keep him safe. Observant readers will note that Jay and his friends have dreams, his parents and grandfather are supportive, and even as the youngsters are playing or Jay and his mother are shopping, there are those in the background or foreground who look on them with suspicion. Although Jay has already been warned not to congregate in groups of four or more and heard his father's advice about how to behave if a police officer stops him while driving, he has no idea just how perilous simple actions may be for someone like him. The content of The Talk is not included verbatim here; instead, a double-page spread filled with dark, ominous shapes and scenarios effectively illustrates what they most likely said. The last pages of the book are powerful. Jay expresses a desire to "just be...us" (unpaged) and to go about their days without having to worry about being singled out for the wrong reasons, perhaps becoming the victims of violence. While there are those who may regard this book and topic as too bleak or depressing, unfortunately, it's an essential conversation that might save lives. It's also worth pointing out that the book ends on a positive note with Jay surrounded by his family's embrace, having been assured that he is not to blame for any of this or how he may be treated in the future. I'm not alone in looking forward to the day when this book will seem outdated and these conversations no longer necessary....more
This unique memoir--3.5, maybe even 3.75 for me!--allows the author to channel the voice of her beloved grandmother, Bobby Bell, after her death at 90This unique memoir--3.5, maybe even 3.75 for me!--allows the author to channel the voice of her beloved grandmother, Bobby Bell, after her death at 90. This woman must surely have been a force of nature and led a fascinating life. The two-grandmother and granddaughter--were particularly close, and Bobby shared many of her family history and some secrets with the girl. They had special lunches, went to plays, and exchanged phone calls or left voicemails. Often, the older woman doled out advice and admonitions, but always with so much love. Readers are treated to stories about the author's mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who immigrated to the United States from Russia. The text includes actual voicemails and exchanges, and even imagines what Bobby would be thinking and feeling from the grave. Opinionated, probably ahead of her time, this woman had a great sense of humor and a unique ability to tell stories, something her granddaughter seems to have inherited. By the time the book ends, readers will miss Bobby and wish that they, too, had been able to share a meal or an afternoon with this remarkable woman. Somehow, against the odds, the author has captured her personality and way of speaking and behaving remarkably well, through fiction and nonfiction. There will be many Jewish readers who will recognize their own grandmother in Bobby while others of us will find ourselves plumbing our memories, scrapbooks, and photo albums to recollect life with our mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers, if they were still in our lives. I thoroughly enjoyed this humorous, honest, heartfelt tribute. ...more
This picture book might be my favorite out of all of the 2024 Notable Books for a Global Society selections. Its usefulness in exploring topics relateThis picture book might be my favorite out of all of the 2024 Notable Books for a Global Society selections. Its usefulness in exploring topics related to tradition, heritage, and racism is undeniable, especially when viewed through the eyes of a child. Keira and Bianca are best friends who have many things in common. Because the story is narrated by Keira, who is Black, readers are able to watch as her eyes are opened to the racism others like her, including her own family, have experienced. A field trip to a museum followed by honest, deep conversations with her parents and grandparents make her question her friendship with Bianca, whose family flies a Confederate flag outside their house and whose presence she noted as part of the exhibits during that field trip. When Bianca fails to have the same reaction to those pictures and the flag, she backs away from the friendship, especially since they had such an emotional effect on her. She regards it a symbol of racism while Bianca defends the flag as representing Southern pride during a conversation with their teacher. After a violent incident involving a Black couple killed by three white men, Bianca's family takes their flag down, and she makes overtures toward Kiera. While her family's heightened awareness and decision to no longer display the flag seems to be rather romanticized, given the attachment to the Confederate flag that so many Southerners have and the story is certainly slanted in one direction, the book overs an excellent starting place for discussing this topic and unpleasant parts of our nation's history as well as hope that there might be some ways forward that involve healing and understanding rather than divisiveness. The digital artwork, created with Photoshop, is quite striking, relying on dark colors and tones to express a somber mood through the last two-thirds of the story that contrasts with the lighter mood of the opening pages. This picture book would fit well in a collection about symbols and mascots or one about the Civil Rights Movement. Readers are able to gain more insight about that flag through the back matter, which includes an Author's Note and an Illustrator's Note. It's important to acknowledge the connection between the Confederate flag and White Supremacy. ...more
This timely novel in verse [3.5 for me!] explores the hot-button topic of school mascots that are considered racist by some individuals. Told through This timely novel in verse [3.5 for me!] explores the hot-button topic of school mascots that are considered racist by some individuals. Told through the voices of six middle-grade students in Rye, Virginia, near the nation's capital, as well as their eighth-grade English teacher, the book presents conflicting points of view about the Braves and how the issue or depiction of a brave polarizes the school and the larger community. While some negative feelings about the school's mascot most likely were present before Ms. Williams assigns the debate topic exploring the pros and cons of Indigenous peoples as mascots, once the students start researching, writing, and reflecting to present their arguments, it takes on a life of its own. Feelings are hurt, alliances are made, and some individuals who consider themselves allies are asked to subdue their voices. Although some of the student voices are a bit inauthentic and the characterization in some respects stereotypical, this book offers quite a lot to discuss and might open some eyes and change some minds. Because there continue to be so many elementary, middle, and high schools with racist mascots, the book's contents are important. It isn't easy to balance tradition with respect for others, and the solutions may not be as smooth or acceptable as they are in this book....more
I'm not sure if pulling together the right outfit, accessories and all, is still a popular practice during Easter Sunday. But this picture book about I'm not sure if pulling together the right outfit, accessories and all, is still a popular practice during Easter Sunday. But this picture book about Elijah, a young Black boy, who searches for just the right suit for that special occasion, brought back some of my own childhood memories of shopping for just the right hat, gloves, shoes, socks, and dress for Easter. Just like Goldilocks in search of the right chair, porridge, and bed, Elijah shops around for his new attire. But nothing seems to quite right, and when his expectations aren't met, he heeds the advice of two elders in the community, fashioning his suit out of clothing previously worn by his own ancestors. When he struts into church to great acclaim, he isn't just wearing repurposed clothing but a bit of history. That final double-page spread is a delight when considering his pose and all the congregation celebrating his accomplishments. The Note from the Author about fashion, hunting for Easter suits, and the significance of this sort of "fancy" clothing, especially for formerly enslaved individuals and during the civil rights movement, elevates this slice of personal history.
Softly colored artwork created with handmade stamps and then digitally edited accompany an important intergenerational story [3.5 for me!] and one thaSoftly colored artwork created with handmade stamps and then digitally edited accompany an important intergenerational story [3.5 for me!] and one that reminds readers of what might be lost when small farms cease to be. The accessible and poetic text explains that Earl's grandfather has the last remaining produce stand in once was a bustling community farmers' market open on Saturdays. Papa harvests all the fruits and vegetables and stashes them in baskets made by the narrator's grandmother while he is responsible for collecting the eggs from the chickens and helping load everything onto the pickup truck. Earl makes note of the lines and wrinkles on Papa's face and hands as well as his gray hair and slow movement and reflects upon the stories they could tell and the experiences the elderly man has had. Papa seems to know his customers and what they want to buy well, and he and young Earl even deliver some plums to an elderly woman on their way home. When Papa is too tired one Saturday to head to market, Earl picks up the reins, peddling there on a bicycle, but losing much of his produce on the way. When his grandfather is still under the weather the next Saturday, Earl figures out a way to transport his wares to market. The response of his customers is touching as they offer homemade gifts of food for Papa. The last illustration shows an older Earl unloading a pickup truck and a sign displaying "Little Earl's Pumpkins, Peppers, Plums &Eggs." Clearly, he's carrying on the family tradition. This moving picture book celebrates the community and connections that are made from everyday experiences and is also a tribute to Black farmers. The Author's Note provides additional insight into the dwindling numbers of Black farmers and those who work the fields. The book's title takes on added significance when considering some of those observations and considering some of the stands that the older Earl has taken throughout his lifetime, hinted at through the text and images. There's a bittersweet quality to all this....more
I'm not sure that Kwame Alexander has gotten enough credit for the skillful way he tells this story. While I wish it had been clearer a little earlierI'm not sure that Kwame Alexander has gotten enough credit for the skillful way he tells this story. While I wish it had been clearer a little earlier that it was a teacher [Ms. Simmons in this book] who is attempting to teach her students a history lesson that covers slavery, once that fact is evident, the text and topic assume even more importance as teachers just like Ms. Simmons working in various school districts ponder "How do you tell that story / and not want to weep / for the world?" (unpaged). The answer to the question is found on the last double-page spread, an acknowledgement that needs to be read by those who would avoid these hard topics and hide the truth: "You do it / by being brave enough / to lift your voice, / by holding / history / in one hand/and clenching / hope / in the other" (unpaged). Oh, yes! This picture book is all the more important because there are school districts where any mention of racism, human trafficking or negative aspects of American history are not allowed to be taught and avoided completely. But sadly, this is part of America's history and an American story, one that needs to be part of school curriculum. Alexander begins with life along African shores before moving to enslavement and the Middle Passages and life in the United States, deftly tracing these dark days riddled with horrors but always with a reminder that these are people "refusing / to be broken" (unpaged). Ultimately, it is the children, the next generation who can draw strength and inspiration from the past and work for changes in the future--as shown in one of the double-page spreads showing youngsters creating posters and in text and images that depict resilience and the fact that " 'we are still here'" (unpaged). This particular American story is stunningly--and really, there is no other word to describe it--illustrated with mixed media artwork consisting of clay sculptures, spray paint, acrylic paint, charcoal, graphite, ink, and digital painting. The details on those sculpted pieces will stop readers in their tracks and almost make them put the book aside for a moment so that they can breathe. Readers won't want to miss reading "A Note from the Author" and "A Note from the Illustrator" for helpful insight into the creative process....more
This is certainly not the first book for teens to cover the infamous "Talk" that many parents of Black boys (and sometimes girls) have with their offsThis is certainly not the first book for teens to cover the infamous "Talk" that many parents of Black boys (and sometimes girls) have with their offspring. But it's quite effective since it follows the author/cartoonist as a young boy hearing certain words from his mother to the moment he must decide how to approach the same topic with his own child. In between, readers have a front row seat as Darrin navigates life as a young Black male in LA and deals with the assumptions some of his teachers, neighbors, and law enforcement officers make about him because of the color of his skin. Although this is serious and important fodder--maybe even life-saving--the graphic novel also contains all sorts of humorous moments, often provided by Bell's outspoken mother and Bell himself. The Prologue with scenes of violence and a fierce dog, followed by the first chapter in which a young Bell doesn't understand the significance of the water gun his mother has purchased being green sets the tone for the rest of the book as readers realize that even the most innocuous toy can become life-threatening if someone in power deems it so or thinks it represents a threat. Watching Bell grow, mature, and become increasingly aware of social justice issues and the prejudices around him is eye-opening, appropriately disturbing, and ultimately hopeful as the narrative moves through his career as an editorial cartoonist while also touching on the pandemic and the BlackLivesMatter movement and the Donald Trump Presidency. Some of the images that help to tell this story will be seared in readers' brains amid hope that one day it won't be necessary for parents to have that "Talk" with their offspring. ...more
I'm probably in the minority on this, but I actually enjoyed this book much more than the author's previous one, The Last Cuentista. The worldbuildingI'm probably in the minority on this, but I actually enjoyed this book much more than the author's previous one, The Last Cuentista. The worldbuilding was interesting, and the plight of Leandro was simply heartbreaking since he seemed to be afforded few chances in life in this future world filled with class divisions, prejudices, and groups of haves and havenots. The fact that those in power are lying about the land and its perils and are willing to sacrifice certain individuals so that others can benefit seems all too real, and I simply adored the alebrijes, especially that hummingbird. There is strength in small things, after all. I won't spoil others' reading experience by revealing too much, but wow! just wait until you reach the Epilogue!...more
Although 970 pages is a lot for an autobiography [There are Presidents whose autobiographies or biographies are far shorter!], I actually enjoyed the Although 970 pages is a lot for an autobiography [There are Presidents whose autobiographies or biographies are far shorter!], I actually enjoyed the detail about singing, writing, acting, and directing that Barbra Streisand included in this book. What some might consider to be trivial or unnecessary distractions to the main event--the story of her life--only further served to amplify her particular journey and provided insight into her personality and motivation. It's clear that she's done it all and is enormously talented and that she epitomizes the notion of perfectionism. But it's just as clear that somehow she's managed to have a long-lasting career in different areas on her own merits and by doing things her way. There are parts of her story that really resonated with me as she describes how others reacted to her and how frustrating it can be to see men and women doing the same things and yet be treated differently. While there are parts of her story that could have used an editor's touch or asides that could have been omitted, to remove them might have taken away some of the charm and the voice of this fascinating woman whose voice and vision have spanned several decades. The word "icon" must surely have been coined with her in mind. I loved all the photos and brushes with other famous individuals that are included in the book, and her honesty as she explores her relationship with her mother and considers how having her father die when she was very young affected her throughout her adult life. The book only served to make me appreciate her even more. But oh, how heavy that volume is when resting on one of my arms!...more