NONFICTION

A Is for Aretha

Penguin/­Kokila. Jan. 2023. 26p. Board $9.99. ISBN 9780593406533.
COPY ISBN
Gr 1-4–Kwan has crafted an excellent alphabet book that focuses on Black female entertainers from the last 100 years and their impact beyond their music; the book is an ideal format for young children but could be used with older readers as a history lesson in an underserved topic in a friendly format. The author takes 26 prominent Black women from music history and positions their art not only in the arena of the impact it made in the music scene but in the overall fabric of society. This not only gives kids examples of how they can make an impact in the world but how their art can do that, too. Kwan does not shy away from mentioning the repercussions many of these artists faced as well as overall societal racial injustices. Coupled with Baker’s resplendent, colorful illustrations created for each artist, this book will capture the attention in a high-impact delivery of memorable information.
VERDICT A perfect companion for the recent H Is for Harlem and ideal for covering overlooked names in Black studies.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?