Have I Ever Told You Black Lives Matter

December 1, 2020
Colorful pages introduce the names of historical and contemporary African American figures to young readers. This follow-up to King's picture book Have I Ever Told You, illustrated by Anna Horv�th (2019), gets specific in its affirmation of Black lives. From "the very first person to die for [the] dream" of American independence, Crispus Attucks, through the freedom fighters down the ages who always knew that Black lives matter, the writers and artists who affirmed the same, and the statespeople who "worked to build a better world," the unnamed adult narrator leads child readers in a direct address through pages of names to drive home the fact that "Black lives matter." The litany is rhythmic and powerful, punctuated all along the way with "Have I told you...?" The historical and contemporary examples of Black excellence effectively build up a sense of confidence and indisputable value before the Black lives cut short by violence are named, so that these acts of violence are seen in proper context as wrongful denial of a birthright. Each spread splashes words in large display type on brightly colored pages, making the eye wander, then linger. Some spreads feature images or silhouettes of iconic individuals using the same bright palette. While the first pages list names within categories, the final pages offer minibiographies of those 116 individuals, in encyclopedia-style columns with small type in bright colors against a light blue background. Best for curious nonfiction lovers or for reference, this unconventionally designed book fulfills its purpose. (Nonfiction. 6-12)

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February 1, 2021
Grades 4-8 *Starred Review* Black history and culture come alive in this celebratory biography, whose fresh, pop art-style bursts with color and creatively sized and set sanserif font, which is as much a part of the illustrations as the many portraits and sleek silhouettes. Taking cues from the street art created during recent Black Lives Matter protests and say-their-name campaigns born of racism and such tragedies as the murder of Breonna Taylor, this book powerfully reflects current events and attitudes, while raising up Black Americans past and present. Over 116 figures are name-dropped within an inspiring array of fields, literally filling the space with a host of groundbreaking individuals: dancers, journalists, writers, community activists, lawyers, politicians, judges, artists, and illustrators. As readers turn each page, they will notice enlarged text, typically a famous quote or affirming rallying cry, accompanied by a list of names connected to that spread's topic. Teachers will find this an excellent book to use with students, both as a springboard for Black-history lessons and cross-curricular studies as well as inspiration for research projects and creative activities for students, like creating their own #BLM word clouds or Black history collages of famous leaders. A brief biographical listing for each person featured in the text rounds out this empowering, fiery speech of a book.

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Starred review from February 1, 2021

Gr 3-7-This inspiring title chronicles African American accomplishments from the Revolutionary War to the present. On alternating pages, the question, "Have I ever told you that...?" is posed, then answered by focusing on important Black trailblazers in disciplines such as science, arts, and politics. Each colorful page features bold fonts that vary in size and outlined portraits that resemble pop art. King's introduction explains the need for Black children to see themselves in young people's literature. He hopes that readers will understand that "all people-including native peoples; people of color; people with disabilities; ethnic, cultural, and religious minorities; and LGBTQIA" are integral to the fabric of America. Following the main text, short biographies provide further information. This unique format works for a wide range of reading levels. The intention of Black empowerment can be achieved with these inspiring role models, and the eye-catching design enhances the powerful message. This book will appeal to fans of Kwame Alexander's The Undefeated. VERDICT A must-purchase that will empower Black children, and expand all readers' knowledge of African American history.-Katherine Rao, Palos Verdes Lib. Dist., CA

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