For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World by Michael W. Waters

Abstract

Reviewed by: For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World by Michael W. Waters Deborah Stevenson, Editor Waters, Michael W. For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World; illus. by Keisha Morris. Flyaway Books, 2020 [40p] Trade ed. ISBN 9781947888081 $18.00 Reviewed from digital galleys R 6-9 yrs Young Jeremiah is learning about the world, and some of what he’s learning is tragic, as he sees news stories about Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, and the Charleston church shooting, and he hears about his father’s participation in protests after the deaths of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and others. After his father explains each death to him, Jeremiah “didn’t want to talk anymore,” but eventually one day he’s [End Page 148] ready to tell his parents how he feels, and together they discuss ways they can work to “make this world a better place.” There’s a candor here that’s not always found in picture book treatments of social issues and racism, and the specificity mirrors conversations likely held in many households, especially African-American households; many will agree with Dad’s repeated refrain of “It doesn’t make sense.” The story is slight and programmatic, but it’s that program that’s the point, and the book delivers with an extensive and thorough concluding discussion guide, prepared by the Department of Education Programming at the Muhammad Ali Center, to steer adults looking to have conversations about this book and the issues it addresses in classrooms or at home. Digital illustrations have the layered sharpness of collage; while the faces are somewhat stiff and similar, there’s energy aplenty in the angular figures. Adults struggling for words—or for making an opportunity to listen—may find this a timely and helpful assistant. An author’s note is included. Copyright © 2020 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois