YOU SO BLACK, by Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. and London Ladd, Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Jan. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $18,99 (ages 4-8)
Celebrate the beauty and strength of Blackness in You So Black, by Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. and London Ladd
Black is everywhere, and in everything, and in everyone — in the night sky and the fertile soil below. It’s in familial connections and invention, in hands lifted in praise and voices lifted in protest, and in hearts wide open and filled with love. Black is good.
Accompanied by award-winning illustrator London Ladd, Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. has adapted her poem to show readers the love, joy, resilience, and universality in the beauty of Blackness. —Synopsis provided by Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Based on Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D.’s spoken word poem of the same name, You So Black has a beautiful weightiness. It features seemingly simple text that begs to be read aloud. Nuances abound, making it a joy to read.
London Ladd’s striking mixed-media collage illustrations further enhance the words. His use of texture, color and light invite readers to examine from close-up and far away.
You So Black honors resiliency and wonder, pain and exuberance, purpose and love. It would be a lovely addition to any home library.
Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.
