Summary
Dear Black Boy is a letter of encouragement to black boys around the world who feel sports is all they have. The message of the story states black boys are more than athletes, they are future leaders of the world. Dreaming big and chasing those dreams, just as they would chase a loose ball, are encouraged throughout the story. The same traits that make black boys great athletes will propel them to success in life. Every black boy can win in the game of life and make a difference in the world.
Theme(s):
Encouragement, Overcoming Adversity, Determination
Personal Response
I really enjoyed this story. I think the message is extremely powerful, especially coming from a retired professional athlete. It’s an easy read which allows readers to understand the message of the story. Students will be able to connect to the book, as many of them are athletes. I love how it included words of wisdom and encouragement. It’s so important for students to know they’re more than an athlete or their appearance.
Teaching Ideas
After reading this story, I would have students identify goals they hope to achieve. I would have a class discussion of how to set goals and how we can achieve our goals. We would discuss short and long term goals. Each student would write down 3 short term goals they hope to achieve and 3 long term goals they hope to achieve. This could also be used as a writing prompt. Students could write what it means to chase your dreams and they would discuss how they’re following their dreams.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01
