Nikki Giovanni

The subtitle is more descriptive of the content of this engaging book than the title. There is a wealth of material, ranging from classic poems by Langston Hughes (several of them read by Hughes on the accompanying CD), Lucille Clifton, Eloise Greenfield, Maya Angelou, Walter Dean Myers, Jacqueline Woodson and others, to modern hip-hop and rap. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech is also included, both in the book and on the CD, with a performance in response by Giovanni and two of the advisory editors. Hope Anita Smith’s recitation of her “Audition” is quiet and hauntingly beautiful. All of the poems emphasize the beat and draw on African-American tradition; they are richly and effectively illustrated by a corps of young illustrators whose biographical sketches are appended. Listening to the CD completes the experience. The variety of poetic forms and performance styles (sometimes elucidated on the CD, as well is in Giovanni’s introduction) makes this collection an excellent source of material not found together elsewhere. (Poetry anthology. 7-12)

-Kirkus Review… (mer)

This lovely book tells the story of the relationship between Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The illustrations are lovely and the story is a wonderful gateway to a quest of learning more about their thoughts and interworkings.

The book opens in the year 1865 at a reception celebrating Lincoln's second inauguration as the United States president. Deep into the Civil War, Lincoln is steadfast in his belief that slavery needs to end. Frederick Douglass, a black man who is well respected, forges the relationship with Lincoln and attends this occasion celebration.

While Lincoln searches for Douglass, his wife notes that it isn't wise to invite a black person. When Lincoln finally notices Douglass it is mentioned that because of the color of his skin, Douglass experienced some difficulty in entering the gala.

Full of information I never knew, once again an illustrated book has pulled me into the content of the well-written and beautifully illustrated tale. Lincoln's eyes were opened on many occasions, but the first time he hauled farm produce down the Mississippi River to New Orleans he was made aware of the travesty of the way in which the black people were treated.

Frederick Douglass reached out to Lincoln when he was elected to the House of Representaitves. The book notes that Frederick wanted to teach Lincoln and he in turn wanted to learn. It is also noted that the two enjoyed each other's company and the ability to laugh amid the sorrow of what what happening in the country.

The fact that Lincoln invited Douglass to his inauguration party shows a lot about Lincoln's character.

Highly recommended!… (mer)