Poems by or About African Americans
April is National Poetry Month. Enjoy some of the following books of poems, or read about the power of writing poetry or the poets that create them.You can also visit http://www.poets.org to find a poem or a poet or for other ideas of how to celebration National Poetry Month.
Reviews
Carver: A Life in Poems
Marilyn Nelson
The author chronicles the life story of George Washington Carver in verse, opening with the poem, "Out of 'Slave's Ransom'" wherein Carver is described as a "puny black baby" who was "convulsive with fever" and "shook by the whooping cough." Many of the poems are based upon the accomplishments of George Washington Carver, which were astounding, but others offer insight into the lesser-known aspects of his life. This approach works: to go beyond the usual focus on his extraordinary gifts and appreciate the man who, with grace and faith, made his way out of the depths of poverty, over racial boundaries, and through the walls of ignorance with his gentle, sometimes plodding and always relentless quest for knowledge. His expansive mind was extraordinary, as was his character. "House Ways and Means" illustrates both of these attributes. As Carver extols the benefits of peanuts in testimony before the committee, he tastes one and Rep. Tilson from Connecticut asks, "Do you want a watermelon to go with that?" Unshaken, Carver responds, indicating that if Tilson wants dessert that's fine, but then he calmly continues with his expert testimony. The book is illustrated with historical photos. 2001, Front Street, Ages 12 up, $16.95. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 1-886910-53-7
Carver: A Life in Poems
Marilyn Nelson
George Washington Carver comes alive in these poems. Nelson sets the poems in the chronological order of Carver's life. Most of the narrative poems are short yet paint powerful, word-picture descriptions of Carver. Nelson accompanies her poems with photographs of Carver, his family and friends and gives brief descriptions of the important events in his life. By the end of the book, the reader feels as if s/he has walked with Carver through the major events of his life and has shared in his hunger, sadness, joy and accomplishments. The poems alternately bring laughter and tears as they portray the life of this great man. One even forgets that the poems are modern; they seem to have been written by Carver and those who knew him best. This book is a must for any library's poetry collection, regardless of whether the collection is for children, young adults or adults. 2001, Front Street, Ages 9 up, $16.95. Reviewer: J. B. Petty
ISBN: 1-886910-53-7
Carver: A Life in Poems
Marilyn Nelson
Marilyn Nelson unites poetry and biography in Carver: A Life in Poems, a Newbery-honor book. These are not simple verses, but intricate expressions of Carver's enigmatic and complex personality. Carver was driven by a desire to know and he paid for his education by becoming "a wizard with a washboard,/a genie of elbow grease and suds...the best washerwoman in town." Nelson writes of his reactions to lynchings and injustice, his relationship with Booker T. Washington and the success that came from his curiosity and ambition to do right by his people. How fitting that poetry is used to convey the way Carver married art and science to reach other human beings! These fifty-nine vignettes give glimpses that leave us wondering and seeking more information, a perfect representation of a man who did the same. Whether it's changing perspectives, reflecting life, explaining emotions, or intriguing with images, story delivered through verse clears a path to appreciation and understanding. 2001, Front Street, $16.95. Ages 12 up. Susie Wilde
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2002 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2001 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Books of Distinction, 2002 ; Riverbank Review; United States
Fanfare Honor List, 2001 ; Horn Book; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001 ; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Boston Globe--Horn Book Awards Winner 2001 Fiction and Poetry United States
Coretta Scott King Awards Honor Book 2002 Author United States
Flora Stieglitz Straus Award Winner 2001 Nonfiction United States
John Newbery Medal Honor Book 2002 United States
State Reading Lists:
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2003 ; Kentucky
Crowning Glory: Poems
Joyce Carol Thomas
Illustrated by Brenda Joysmith
The narrator remembers Mama, in the opening poem, and asks as she braids the child's hair, "Is this my crowning glory?" The other free verse poems are all in the present moment and depict African American family members and their hair customs or habits--from a cousin who is waiting for her dreads to lock, to Great-Grandma's practice of winding black twine into her hair to make the patterns strong. Mama wears her hair "natural/In memory of a faraway place" while others weave ribbons and beads, or a headdress to decorate their heads. There are also verses about a child's wonderful sensuous visit to the beauty shop, playing with hats, and modeling with Grandma's "helper," a wig or borrowed hair, as she calls it. An unfortunate spelling of "barrettes" as "berets" mars an otherwise exuberant poem about loosening a "do" to swim joyfully with hair free and unbraided. What is good hair? "Why it's understood,/Sister, if it's on your head it's good!" says Mama. Joysmith's illustrations appear to be pastels and colored pencils and glow with color. No two hairdos are alike and one opening picture of four girls reading a picturebook with free and unbraided hair depicts a quiet moment of beauty. Girls will revel in the many possibilities one can experience with hair, and, like other books about African American hairdos, will feel glad they have such versatility. The book comes with a purple-bobbled hairband to help the reader with her own crowning glory. 2002, HarperCollins, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-06-023474-1
Danitra Brown Leaves Town
Nikki Grimes
Illustrated by Floyd Cooper
This warm sequel to the Coretta Scott King Honor Book, Meet Danitra Brown, shows two friends that their friendship can endure separation for the summer when Danitra goes to visit her extended family in the country while Zuri stays home in the city. Both write letters detailing some of the joys--of weeding and the night sky, or a street party and making a new friend--and reveal that they are gutsy, savvy, and affectionate. Grimes tells the story in free verse with occasional rhymes, both ending and internal, that hint at poetry but don't sacrifice meaning for rhyme or rhythm. Cooper's paintings depict Danitra with glasses and Zuri with puffy hair but it is difficult to tell who each girl is without reading several poems first. The final picture of Danitra and Zuri hugging is accompanied by a poem that's sure to ring true with other friends-- "A good hello/is knowing/when we're far apart,/at heart/we're still together,/and being glad/you're home again/cause that is ten times better/." 2002, HarperCollins, Ages 8 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-688-13155-7
ISBN: 0-688-13156-5
Families: Poems Celebrating the African American Experience
Selected by Dorothy S. Strickland and Michael R. Strickland
Illustrations by John Ward
Poetry can express and teach us so much! Here is a beautiful poetry book written by and about African Americans. It shows much about people's feelings, cares, and concerns. The poetry is touching no matter what your skin color might be, and hopefully will add to our cultural understanding. The illustrations add to the beauty of this book. A good addition to your library. 1994, Boyds Mills Press, $14.95. Ages 5 to 12. Reviewer: M. Kleven (Parent Council Volume 2)
ISBN: 1-5639-7288-3
Families: Poems Celebrating the African American Experience
Selected by Dorothy S. Strickland and Michael R. Strickland
Illustrations by John Ward
The poems in Dorothy and Michael R. Strickland's anthology Families celebrate the African-American experience and prove that the more diverse we are, the more we are the same. Langston Hughes's "Aunt Sue's Stories", for example, reminds us that there is one person who is the storyteller in all families. In "Black Parent to Child", Naomi F. Faust writes "Drown yourself with knowledge; drench your-self with skills, / The world's wide open, child; / walk right in." Eloise Greenfield, Lucille Clifton, and Nikki Giovanni are among the other poets who delight with universal wisdom and wit. 1994, Wordsong, $14.95 and $7.95. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 1-5639-7288-3
Hopscotch Love: A Family Treasury of Love Poems
Nikki Grimes
Illustrated by Melodye Benson Rosales
Although these twenty-two poems were written to depict the various faces of love within an African-American community, their appeal is truly universal. "Why I Hate Jamel" will resonate with any girl who has been caught in a love-hate relationship with a boy whose method of showing that he cares is to annoy her. Then suddenly he does something sweet, like asking her to be his valentine and telling her that she has "outrageously pretty eyes." Grandmas bake cakes and Dads express displeasure at a poor report card but are steadfast in family love. The poems are laid out on cream-colored pages, with titles in red script, and lovely full-page, full-color illustrations are sprinkled throughout. A delightful little package. 1999, Lothrop, $14.95. Ages 10 up. Marilyn Courtot
(Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-688-15667-3
ISBN: 0-688-15668-1
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards 1999 United States
I Am the Darker Brother : An Anthology of Modern Poems by African Americans
Edited and with an afterword by Arnold Adoff
Drawings by Benny Andrews
Introduction by Rudine Sims Bishop
Foreword by Nikki Giovanni
You couldn't have a richer collection of the most prominent contemporary African-American poets. Names like Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Gwendolyn Brooks, Amiri Baraka, and Rita Dove fill its pages. Through the lyrical medium of poetry, this anthology strives to illuminate the soul of the quintessential African-American. The hardship of history and the hope for the future resound from section to section. Readers follow the poets on a journey of a collective heritage that will forever affect future generations. 1997, Simon & Schuster, $4.99. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0-689-80869-0
ISBN: 0-689-81241-8
Best Books:
Booklist: Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, 1997 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults, 2001 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 1997 ; Cahners; United States
I, Too, Sing America : Three Centuries of African-American Poetry
Selected and annotated by Catherine Clinton
Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn
Parents and teachers will find this anthology spanning three centuries of Black poetry in America varied and powerful. Thirty-six poems written by twenty-five poets include themes of resistance and reconciliation, hope and despair. Brief biographies of the poets and notes on their poems are included. The illustrations provide a visual interpretation of each poem. 1998, Houghton Mifflin Children's Books, $20.00. Ages 10 to 12. Reviewer C. Henebry (Parent Council Volume 8)
I, Too, Sing America : Three Centuries of African-American Poetry
Selected and annotated by Catherine Clinton
Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn
When one is given a book--a gift--of poetry, it is sometimes hard to define the characteristics that distinguish it from every other anthology in its category. In the case of this splendid group of poems by African American writers, the special qualities virtually leap off the page and demand to be noticed. Notably, there is the strong visual appeal of the illustrations by Stephen Alcorn. Softly colored but strongly evocative, these pages perfectly complement the poems they describe with impressionistic images. Then there are the brief biographies of each of the twenty-five poets. Clinton has added these intriguing sketches to place the poet in historical context, but also to establish a timeline, a progression, of the African American presence in America. The biographies include enticing tidbits of Black history and lore, such as the fact that poet James Weldon Johnson served as consul to Venezuela in 1906. Readers will also note the high level of education and achievement among these men and women of letters, many of whom were able to attend college when higher education was the exception, not the rule, for all Americans. Overwhelmingly, the greatest achievement of this collection is the poetry itself, an incredible mix of styles, sophistication and lyricism which will captivate the reader. Names like Langston Hughes, W.E.B. DuBois, Maya Angelou, and Alice Walker are prominent in the collection. Yet, lesser-known writers like slave poets Phillis Wheatley and Moses Horton and the numerous voices that sing out from the Harlem Renaissance movement make no less of an impact. Readers may be horrified by Lucy Terry's epic observation of an Indian massacre as seen through a slave's eyes. They may be torn by the numerous, gut-wrenching testimonies to the pain of racism in America. Children of all races will identify with contemporary poet Rita Dove's sassy statement of personal worth in the face of schoolyard teasing. Every reader should find some universal emotion, some encompassing yearning, with which to identify in this volume that runs the gamut of the African American experience. If you are a librarian or a teacher, do not consign this book to a Black history collection or a children's poetry shelf. Its appeal is all-inclusive. 1998, Houghton Mifflin Company, $20.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross
ISBN: 1-8838-4689-7
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books in the Middle: Outstanding Books, 1998 ; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 1999 ; Children's Book Council; Unites States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Claudia Lewis Award Winner 1998 United States
Langston Hughes: American Poet
Alice Walker
Illustrated by Catherine Deeter
Just in time for his centennial celebrations, the reprint of Alice Walker's loving portrait of Hughes is most welcome. Her narrative remains the same: a child-friendly look at the key points in Hughes's youth that set him on the road to becoming the writer that he was. Kids will love the Mexico City earthquake that never allowed Langston to catch up on his sleep before being bundled on the train back to Kansas. Adults will enjoy Walker's new Author's Note, which describes her warm friendship with the older Hughes during her college days. All readers will be drawn into Catherine Deeter's finely evocative paintings of Hughes and his times. An added bonus to all this is the inclusion of two of Langston's most memorable early poems-not as an afterthought, but beautifully flowing from the text. This is not a book for the multicultural market. It is a book for everyone about a native son who stretched for his dreams, sang like Walt Whitman of America, and made us all proud. 2002 (orig. 1974), Amistad/HarperCollins, $16.95. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature).
This book is a reprint of Alice Walker's 1974 tribute to the great African- American poet, Langston Hughes. Walker focuses on Hughes' youth and young adulthood; she straightforwardly reports the pain and abandonment Hughes experienced from both of his parents. She is very explicit about the destructiveness caused by the greed and self-hatred Langston saw in his father. However, Walker is eloquent in her discussion of how Langston managed to transform that pain into poetry, even as a teenager. Catherine Deeter's rich toned paintings, done for the reissue, complement and enhance the text. Perhaps the most striking example is how her full page pictures bring to life the two important early poems, "When Susanna Jones Wears Red," and "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" that are incorporated into the text. Although the illustrations and the length of the text make this biography a picture book, nothing about it makes it appropriate for young children. Rather, the complex presentation of how a poet manages to transmute pain into poetry makes this book well worth perusing not just in middle school but in high school and into adulthood. 2005 (1974), Amistad/Harper Collins, $16.99 and $7.99. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Mary Hynes-Berry (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2003; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
ISBN: 0-06-021518-6
ISBN: 0-06-079889-0
Langston Hughes: Great American Writer
B. A. Hoena
This biography introduces the African American writer Langston Hughes and his feelings about racism. In addition, it points out how Hughes used the blues music form in his poetry. The good selection of black and white photos set against colorful text pages are fully captioned and lend authority to the text and a "Fast Facts" section gives readers vital statistics, education, and major works. The text ends with a timeline, glossary, internet sites, further reading which can be augmented with the many picture books that feature Hughes's poetry, and an index. This title, like the others in the "Fact Finders" biography series, features carefully-controlled vocabulary, short and direct sentences, photos that match the text to aid in comprehension, and an uncomplicated design. 2005, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 7 to 10. Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7368-3745-0
Langston Hughes: The Voice of Harlem
Brenda Haugen
Hughes lived during a very interesting time for black artists. Although his home was in various areas of the United States and Mexico, his true home was Harlem. His home on E 127th St. in Harlem is currently open to the public. Poetry readings by budding artists are given periodically at his residence. As a youngster he lived occasionally with his grandmother his mother and his father in Mexico. By the time he graduated from high school he had been chosen as school poet and had written "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," which would become the first poem he would publish. It was based on what he felt the Mississippi River and slavery meant to blacks. Throughout his life he continued to write and publish about what life was like for blacks in his day. Since he enjoyed music he also utilized his writing talent by working on operas and musicals. He was truly a Harlem Renaissance man. 2006, Compass Point Books, $30.60. Ages 10 to 13. Reviewer: Leila Toledo (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7565-0993-9
Locomotion
Jacqueline Woodson
Lonnie has a lot to deal with in his life. He is living with his foster mother, Ms. Edna and her sons. He hates being separated from his sister and still mourns the deaths of his parents in a house fire. He is picked on because he is the "new boy" in school until the ringleader of the class is hospitalized with sickle cell anemia and another boy joins the class. Mrs. Marcus, Lonnie's teacher, shows Lonnie how to make sense of his jumbled feelings through poetry. Locomotion is the result. Lonnie writes about everything he is dealing with in a series of poems as a way to deal with all his issues. Lonnie tells us that Eric is changed when he rejoins the class after his stay in the hospital. His sister, Lili, is going to be adopted by her foster parents but they get to spend some time together at summer camp. Lonnie also learns that church can help him deal with his life. Fans of Jacqueline Woodson's novels should enjoy this collection of poems portraying the pain and joy of a young African American boy struggling to grow up in an urban environment. 2003, G. P. Putnam's Sons/Penguin Putnam Books, $15.99 and $24.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Terri L. Lent
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, November 25, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
Love to Langston
Tony Medina
Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie
Langston Hughes, one of the most influential poets of the 20th century, comes to life in this homage by Tony Medina. Crafting his poems using the style of his subject, Medina sheds light on Hughes' life, from his childhood to his deathbed. Each poem covers a different phase of his life, from the struggle of sitting in the "Jim Crow Row" in school to his happiness at Alice Walker bringing him "A Bag of Oranges" on his deathbed. Because Medina mirrors Hughes' style in his biographical poetry, the reader gains more insight than he would have if it were just a straight-text biography. To further understand the meaning behind the poems, a section of notes at the end of the book describe in deeper detail what Langston was going through. This last section is particularly useful for teachers. Whether you're studying poetry, African-American history, or biography, Love to Langston will come in handy. 2002, Lee & Low Books, $16.95. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Carey Ahr
ISBN: 1-584300-41-8
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002 ; Children's Literature; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, March 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
Make A Joyful Sound: Poems For Children by African-American Poets
Edited by Deborah Slier
Illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu
This collection by African-American poets will bring joy and laughter to the reader. Many of the poems capture the African-American culture and will touch the hearts of children. Readers will be encouraged to celebrate their daily experience and the world around them. A brief biography of each poet is provided. Warm illustrations. 1996, Cartwheel Books, $13.95. Ages 5 to 12. Reviewer: T. Harper (Parent Council Volume 3)
ISBN: 0-590-67432-3
Make A Joyful Sound: Poems For Children by African-American Poets
Edited by Deborah Slier
Illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu
This wonderful collection of poems by twenty-six prominent twentieth century African-American poets provides a wonderful view of both cultural and artistic diversity. The poems provide cultural insight from the importance of tribal masks as symbols of identity to the joy of parades. There are a variety of poetic styles, which can broaden readers' appreciation of the forms as they enjoy these insightful, entertaining, and thought provoking poems. There is also a wide range of styles presented in the illustrations--black and white drawings emphasizing shading and lines to brightly colored watercolor illustrations stressing shape and color. This collection of poetry will appeal to readers of any age and will provide even greater understanding when read again. 1991, Cartwheel Books/Scholastic, $13.95. Ages All. Reviewer: Alexandria LaFaye
ISBN: 0-590-67432-3
Best Books: Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Maya Angelou: America's Poetic Voice
Nancy Shuker
Maya Angelou can sometimes seem a figure of mythic proportions - perhaps that is why she is included in this "Giants of the Arts and Culture" series - but Nancy Shuker does good job of making her seem accessible and real. Augmented by more than thirty black and white photos and many quotes, this text explores Angelou's experiences from childhood to current day. A great deal of attention is given to issues of race and class, art and poetry, but the main focus of this book is determination and survival. This is a thoughtful and compelling examination of one of America's most beloved individuals. Includes a chronology of significant events from Angelou's life in the context of American events, a glossary, and a bibliography. 2001, Blackbirch, Ages 9 to 12, $21.95 Reviewer: Heidi Green
ISBN: 1-56711-506-3
Off to the Sweet Shores of Africa and Other Talking Drum Rhymes
Uzo Unobagha
Illustrated by Julia Cairns
The Nigerian-born author has written more than 75 brief rhymes inspired by Mother Goose nursery rhymes, but also by her own memories of village life. They are filled with original characters and the creatures and settings of West Africa. She has used rhythm and word play to take us from the mango tree, across desert sand, through the elephant grass, along the river, through the market, and into the family circle. Each of the verses is illustrated by Cairns with an image that relates to the words, from drinking camels "kneeling, kneeling," to child "and ten red monkeys..." These are bright, cheery, simplified images as possibly perceived by a child, but not childish. They describe a place of peace, freedom and joy for child and beast in full-page watercolor scenes and vignettes. The author discusses the origin of the poems in her notes, and includes a glossary. 2000, Chronicle Books, Ages 3 to 6, $16.95. Reviewer Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8118-2378-4
Once Upon A Farm
Marie Bradby
Illustrated by Ted Rand
This is a eulogy for a sweeter, simpler life. An African-American boy narrates the story, told in poetic form, of his family's life on their farm. The challenge of early rising and hard work and chores is immediately balanced with the sense of beauty and wonder in nature, and the love in this family. A well is dug, a new house built, and the reader is shown the children's joy as they grow. A lovely pairing of illustrations shows a pig with many nursing piglets opposite the family sitting at their dinner table giving thanks for their food. The sense of nurturing is strong in this beautiful picture book. The tender and warm watercolors are realistic and idealistic, in keeping with the text. Several lines of text are on each spread; each has an illustration that expands on the words. This is a lovely book that might be used in a variety of ways. The message of the intrusion of the city at the end is clear, and beautifully poignant. 2002, Orchard/Scholastic, Ages 4 to 9, $16.95 Reviewer: Candace Deisley
ISBN: 0-439-31766-5
The Other Side: Shorter Poems
Angela Johnson
This deceptively simple book of poems offers wry insightful glimpses into the character of the people and locale of Shorter, Alabama, which was torn down to make way for a dog track. The young Afro-American poet claims to both love and hate this southern rural town where she grew up, but it is primarily love that comes across in the free verse. As she chronicles stories of her family, friends, and self in an immediate vernacular voice, weaving its way through concise vignettes, there is a wistful sense of loss of the way of life once embedded in the "red, red dirt of Alabama." The personal black-and-white photos included in the book invite the reader to make connections between the people in the poems and those in the pictures, but much remains slightly out of focus. The book jacket of photos superimposed on a green padlocked fence is emblematic of these locked-away memories. Likewise, while these poems communicate both to children and adults, life on "the other side" ultimately remains out of reach. The childhood experiences should be of particular interest to children, and the young author can be an inspiration to aspiring writers. 1998, Orchard Books, Ages 10 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Carol Collins
ISBN: 0-531-30114-1
ISBN: 0-531-33114-8
The Other Side: Shorter Poems
Angela Johnson
Many books released for young adults may work better for those who are grown. I was deeply impressed with the raw emotions and narrative power of Angela Johnson's The Other Side: Shorter Poems, a volume based on memories of her Alabama town which was razed to make a dog track. This volume deservedly won both the Coretta Scott King and Lee Bennet Hopkins awards, but I had to read it alone. I couldn't get children I knew to share it with me. 1999, Orchard, $15.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Fourteenth Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1999 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Coretta Scott King Awards Honor Book 1999 United States
Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award Winner 1999 United States
The Palm of My Heart: Poetry by African American Children
Edited by Davida Adedjouma
Illustrated by Gregory Christie
Introduction by Lucille Clifton
Through poetry, African children celebrate what it means to by Black. By way of a series of workshops in the inner city the editor was able to stimulate children to express their joys, frustrations and visions of what being Black means to them. Out of the mouths of babes.... 1996, Lee & Low Books, $15.95. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 1-880000-41-5
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 1999 ; Children's Book Council; Unites States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Coretta Scott King Awards Honor Book 1997 United States
Phillis Wheatley: Slave and Poet
Robin S. Doak
Born in Africa and brought to America in 1761 as a slave when she was about seven years old, Phillis Wheatley was the first African-American to publish a book. John Wheatley of Boston, Massachusetts, purchased Phillis as a companion for his ailing wife, Susanna. Soon after her arrival, though, the little girl's aptitude for learning was noticed and encouraged. She learned to read and write. Phillis also studied French, Latin, and Greek, but she loved poetry best of all. At fourteen, she translated a Latin poem into English and published her first poem in 1767. When some people questioned whether a young slave could have written such poetry, John Wheatley invited respected Bostonians, including John Hancock, to test Phillis--she passed. She traveled to London in 1773 to see about publishing a book of poems and was even invited to an audience with King George III, but Susanna's illness prompted Phillis to cut short her visit to England. Susanna saw Phillis' book in print before dying the following year. At age 20, Phillis was freed and had to make a life for herself. She continued to write poetry, including a poem in honor of George Washington, who invited her to visit him, but her life often was difficult. She died penniless in a boarding house in 1784, but her legacy lives today. Part of the "Signature Lives" series, this comprehensive biography of a Revolutionary War-era figure contains a time line, source notes, additional resources, a glossary, an index and a bibliography. 2006, Compass Point Books, $30.60. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7565-0984-X
Phillis Wheatley: Young Revolutionary Poet
Kathryn Kilby Borland and Helen Ross Speicher
Illustrated by Cathy Morrison
"What am I bid for this strong, healthy girl?" What a powerful sentence to begin this book about Phillis Wheatley. This is the touching story of how a young slave, who could not read, write, or speak English, became one of America's first poets. This book has 13 chapters tied together beautifully and each chapter is like a short story. The authors have done an excellent job of including important historical details in an interesting way. This young slave, who was fortunate to be bought by the Wheatley family, grew from a terrified little girl who was dressed in rags, to a lovely young lady who met and sat with George Washington, the President of the United States. The illustrations are excellent and give the reader a sense of being part of the story. What a perfect role model Phillis Wheatley will be to readers of this book. She certainly overcame unbelievable hardships. This well-written book, part of the "Young Patriots" series is perfect for both classroom and personal libraries. At the back of the book, the reader will find "Fun Facts" about Phillis Wheatley, a timeline, a website address for more information and a short glossary. I highly recommend this book and believe that once read, others from the series will find their way to the same shelf. 2005, Patria Press, $22.95. Ages 8 to 12. Kathie M. Josephs (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-88285-947-2
ISBN: 1-88285-948-0
A Poem of Her Own: Voices of American Women Yesterday and Today
Edited by Catherine Clinton
Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn
Clinton has pulled together examples of poems from twenty-five American women poets. Many of the poems and poets will be familiar - although some are fairly new and the book even includes four new works by contemporary women poets. The introduction is somewhat long, but it will be of great value to any one interest in the topic and it is decorated with little colorful insets by Alcorn. I found the chronology and facts about women poets fascinating and the brief biographies appearing at the end of the book equally illuminating and interesting. While this book may never be one for casual reading, it will provide a wealth of information for students and their teachers. The choice of poets is interesting -- several are African American, and other ethnic groups are represented by Naomi Shihab Nye, Sandra Cisneros and Cathy Song. The most difficult poem for readers will probably be "The Author to Her Book" by Anne Bradstreet (1678)--without any introductory and biographical information and due to the changes in language over time, it is difficult to understand what the poem is about. Some readers will be amazed to learn that "The Battle-Hymn of the Republic" was a poem written by Julia Ward Howe, that the familiar Thanksgiving song that begins "Over the river , and through the wood,..." was written by Lydia Maria Child, and that the famous words ("Give me your tired, your poor,/Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,...") etched in the base of the Statue of Liberty were written by Emma Lazarus. The wonderful paintings by Alcorn are big, bright and bold. The full page illustration that accompanies "Homage to My Hips" written by Lucille Clifton is perfect as are the more delicate insets that decorate the poem "Lost Sister" by Cathy Song. This is a book highly recommended for any library collection and a personal purchase for anyone who enjoys poetry. 2003, Abrams, Ages 12 up, $17.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8109-4240-2
Quiet Storm: Voices of Young Black Poets
Selected by Lydia Omolala Okutoro
The term African Diaspora has been used to describe the spread of Africans to all corners of the globe. Ms. Okutoro, herself a native Nigerian, sent out an international call for submissions by young poets with African roots. This compilation is the result, a fine selection from poets in America, Canada, Jamaica, Barbados, Haiti, and Uganda. The poems are divided into eight categories, such as The Struggle Continues, After Tomorrow, and To Our Elders. Leading off each section are verses by noted literary figures including Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou. But the real strength of this book lies in the passionate voices of the young poets. As one young woman puts it, "Take a trip to my soul and you will find me." 1999, Hyperion, $16.99. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Christopher Moning
ISBN: 0-7868-2403-4
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 1999 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Capitol Choices, 1999 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 2001 ; Children's Book Council; Unites States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Fifteenth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Remember The Bridge: Poems of a People
Carole Boston Weatherford
This book was begun more than two decades ago as a graduate school photo-essay assignment where she pored over "hundreds of prints and photographs". Over the years she has written word images to go with the visual representations. Weatherford has created an amazing chronicle with her skillful pairing of pictures and poetry. Her introductory poem, "Remember the Bridge", begins, "Remember the bridge/ that your ancestors crossed, / the sweat that was spilled/ and the lives that were lost" . In concise, prosaic language, she goes on to explain the mission of her book. She sets out to remember slaves, conductors and passengers of the Underground Railroad, Civil War soldiers, people who told tales of traveling to a more industrialized north and those who fought for Civil Rights. This lofty goal is realized with twenty-seven emotive poems which speak for people who were captured in Africa, traveled across the ocean, were sold on slave blocks, fought for freedom, and strived for recognition in all fields. Not only does Weatherford honor people named and unnamed, she celebrates poetry as she alters tones to match periods and enlivens eras with poignant images. The illustrations for these poems are dramatic monochromes that vary from line drawings to a heart-breaking photograph of a horribly scarred run-away slave. Weatherford's well-shaped book spirals upwards to the final poem, "I Am the Bridge" which summarizes the strength of the voices of all the lives she's made vivid, and their impact on the world. She ends with a sense of continuance and hope, "The past is the foundation, / the future the next span. /We'll bridge the mighty river;/ brothers, sisters, hand in hand." 2002, Philomel, Ages 8 to adult, $17.99. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-23726-7
Remember The Bridge: Poems of a People
Carole Boston Weatherford
The author's note at the end of this collection of poems and photographs explains how the author began her "pilgrimage into my past." She had written poems and was searching for photographs to accompany them. The research led her to look at hundreds of prints and photographs that proved to be the inspiration for subsequent poems, which cover four hundred years of African American history. The poems take readers from the slave trade in Africa to the slave markets in the US, life on a plantation, escape, life as free men and women of color, heroes and heroines including contemporary singers, jazz musicians, star athletes, the civil rights movement and the joy of success and achievement. This look at African-American history will linger with the reader and it ends with the hope and belief in a bright future for all. The handsome book is a great choice for both poetry and African-American collections. 2002, Philomel, Ages 10 up, $17.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23726-7
'Twas the Night B'fore Christmas: An African-American Version
Retold and illustrated by Melodye Rosales
It is Christmas Eve, 1904, in North Carolina. Come and join the Weatherby family as they listen to 'Twas the Night B'fore Christmas. Chuckle at the language and 'ooh' and 'aah' at the energetic art work. Rosales is a portrait painter who imbues each character with a distinctive personality. This black Santa has such charm and gusto that you want to take him home. The book is a magical experience that has you tapping your toes when you read it aloud: "Oh, my! How his eyes shone/ like coals lit white hot!/ His cheeks puffed like bread puddin'/ baked in a pot." 1996, Scholastic, $12.95. Ages 3 up. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 0-590-73944-1
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 1996 ; Cahners; United States
Visiting Langston
Willie Perdomo
Illustrated by Bryan Collier
A paean to Langston Hughes in lilting jazz rhythms, poet and Harlem native Willie Perdomo's spare narrative follows a young girl as she visits Hughes's brownstone home in Harlem. Coretta Scott King Awardee Bryan Collier's watercolor and collage illustrations match the feeling of Perdomo's words. His images are riff with emotion rather than realism. The little girl's pink-striped shirt and her daddy's faux alligator jacket add to the color of the place-and to each of them as individuals. This is a book filled with pride; a book meant to give pride. A prefatory Author's Note gives a brief biographical sketch of Hughes, which emphasizes his motivations as a writer. 2002, Henry Holt, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-8050-6744-2
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Coretta Scott King Awards 2003 Illustrator United States
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor Book 2002 Language Arts-Picture Books United States
When Daddy Prays
Nikki Grimes
Illustrated by Tim Ladwig
The African-American father in these poems is a big strong man, and his size is a symbol for his strong belief in God and the power of prayer. He sets a good example for his son and is always there supporting and providing his physical strength as well as his enduring belief in the power of God. Grimes poems are strong and some such as "Like Him" have a bit of humor as the young boy tries to dress up and look like his father or when he admonishes his father in "Lost and Found" to aks God to give him help as he hunts all over the house for his keys. The strength of the family is epitomized in the size of the man who looks like he could play football for any team and who on Monday nights is an armchair coaches in front of the TV. But when his feverish son climbs in his lap, the world once again centers on family and the hope that God will provide the strength to help his boy get well. A collection that should appeal to all who have belief in the power of prayer regardless of race or creed. 2002, Eerdmans, Ages 4 up, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8028-5152-5
Wonders: The Best Children's Poems of Effie Lee Newsome
Compiled by Rudine Sims Bishop
Illustrations by Lois Mailou Jones
Reminiscent of A Child's Garden of Verses, these long out-of-print poems were the first written by an African-American poet for African-American children, but with no other apparent difference in their choice of subject, their language, their style or their universal appeal. There is no nationalism, political agenda, religious bent or cultural tradition in this volume--only the author's love of simplicity, nature and rhythm. "The pigeons find so much to eat/ I see them pecking in the street. / What is it that they relish so/ That they must nibble as they go?" and "there's been the strangest kind of change/ Since autumn came into the woods. / The mountain maples' summer hats/ Have turned to bright red riding hoods" are universally appealing. The black-and-white illustrations by the gifted artist were newly done for this edition, with the exception of one by the author, and the book begins with full notes about the lives of both artist and poet. A great "quiet-time" book for all children. 1999, Boyds Mills, $14.95. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 1-5639-7788-5
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Words with Wings: A Treasury of African-American Poetry and Art
Belinda Rochelle
TWhat a powerful collection of poetry and art by African-American authors and artists! Rochelle has paired poems and works of art that express the despair, strength, courage, loss and hope that represent the unquenchable African-American spirit. By selecting poems and art that span over a century of the African experience in America, Rochelle brings together works that might otherwise seem dichotomous. The book is perhaps most powerful to those adults who have experienced or witnessed events represented in the poems and art, yet it can serve as a learning/sharing tool with children and young adults, to preserve the memory of the scaled hurdles of past generations. The reader's emotions will run the gamut with this collection. Selecting a favorite poem or work of art is impossible, yet most remain indelibly marked in the mind and heart. The addition of biographical information about each poet and artist makes the book an important addition for any poetry collection. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 8 up, $16.95. Reviewer: J. B. Petty
ISBN: 0-688-16415-3
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2002 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, January 2001 ; Cahners; United States
Additional Poetry Book Reviews
2000
2001
2002
2003
To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.
To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.
If you're interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.