4.62 AVERAGE

wordnerd153's review

5.0

Stunningly beautiful and powerful picture book in verse that connects the principles of Kwanza to Black history in America. This would pair perfectly with Born on the Water.
christine_ebooks's profile picture

christine_ebooks's review

5.0

Outstanding.

oomilyreads's review

5.0

The People Remember written by Ibi Zoboi, illustrated by Loveis Wise

PUB DATE: Sept 28, 2021

This incredibly stunning picture book is art itself. It is a powerful poetic tribute to African American history using the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

she_reads_alot's profile picture

she_reads_alot's review

5.0

This book is important, and it is well executed.
The writing is lyrical, and the illustrations are stunning.
The colors and patterns are bold and beautiful.
The words transcend the page. They dance to a narrative that is 400 years in the making.
Read this book to your children so they, too, can be people who remember.

Zoboi takes readers on a journey that begins in "The Ashanti and the Fulani, the Empire if Mali, the Hausa and Ibo as well as the Kongo, the Yoruba and Akan, the Empire of Songhai, the Kingdom of Dahomey, the Mende and the Fon" because these are the places that African Descendants called home.
We follow the ancestors through their tumultuous journey of having been captives of war who are later sold to a foreign land.
Using the seven principles of Kwanza, the story goes on to methodically describe the history after the first ships arrive on the southern coast of America up until present day.
Transatlantic slave trade, the American Civil War, the Reconstruction Era, the Civil Rights Movement, BLM.
Some of the greats like Dr. King, Jimi Hendrix, Toni Morrison, and Barack Obama are even highlighted along the way.
There is an Author's Note included which gives some insight into her life and Kwanza. This addition, along with a glossary for the seven principles, the timeline of events, and the recommended reading list are all so interesting and add another level to the story. Explanations are crucial for understanding, especially for children. You know their favorite questions are "why?" and "how?" !

Souls have been lost so that other's may gain.
"But the people still remember that with each rising sun is a new day. With each new year is a new dream; a new seed of hope unearthed, dusted, and polished. The people know that there will be a time of peace."
We keep the faith and are hopeful for a kinder, more understanding, and compassionate future.
And always, the people remember.

You do not want to miss out on this book ! The publication date is set for 9/28.
challenging emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced
bookdragon217's profile picture

bookdragon217's review

5.0
hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

The people remember
that like the rising and setting sun,
the winds turning from cool to warm.

they can change a time,
a today,
a tomorrow,
but never the past.

The people remember
that they have the power
to change this nation.

KUJICHAGULIA.
Self-determination.

Thanks to @harperkids for the gifted copy. I am always grateful for opportunities to read diasporic books. Reading The People Remember by Haitian author Ibi Zoboi and illustrator Love is Wise was a beautiful and immersive experience. It is always special when a book depicts true black history and fosters in pride our ancestral beliefs and practices. I learned so much but I also got reminders of how far black people have come despite America's history continuing to repeat itself. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and the writing is full of rich history. I wish they had books like these when I was growing up. Seeing accurate history and diverse representation in literature in childhood can be transformative and helps with self esteem building, promotes community building and emotional intelligence, as well as builds empathy. I hope this book makes its way to every classroom library. I highly recommend everyone pick up a copy and share it with all the children in your life. Summary will be in the comments