STARRED REVIEW
Written from a place of love and deeply attuned to the emotional needs of Black boys.
A kid lit giant extends a mighty message of love.
Hudson addresses readers directly—“Gary, I see you… / Hassan, I see you… / Jose, I see you”—using names that recognize the diversity of the African American community. He heartily affirms the movement, beauty, bodies, dreams, struggles, strengths, and fears of Black boys: “Tall, lean, lanky, and strutting yourself. / Dark and chocolate to the bone.” Word choices demonstrate a deep appreciation for Black culture: “long dreads crowning your head like a king,” “low-top fade your fresh new cut of choice.” Mallett’s largely sepia-toned digital painted illustrations reflect the author’s intimate perspective. Boys appear in familiar scenarios, playing basketball, dancing, making music, and learning; one scene finds a stunned-looking youngster facing off against another in a dark alley. The bold cover is compelling, with a child’s eyes centered, suggesting a book that peers into the very souls of Black boys. Toward the end, Hudson leaves readers with a message of love and strength: “Black boys, your ancestors see you…. / There’s greatness inside you that they passed on. / Made plans for you because they knew you were coming.” The final image, a maternal figure hugging a brown-skinned boy, perfectly matches the tone and will linger.
Written from a place of love and deeply attuned to the emotional needs of Black boys. (Picture book. 5-10)
