Summary
This book celebrates a little Black boy and the bright future that comes for him. It discussed the challenges faced growing up as a child of color, but encourages him to “speak your mind freely, state what you know. Watch as they listen and witness your glow”. No matter what the future holds for the boy, he is capable of anything that he puts his mind to. Just like the many African-Americans that have come before him to pave the way, stay determined and value education as “knowledge is power”.
Theme(s):
Inspiration, Family, Perseverance, Encouraging
Personal Response
This book was powerful and shows elements of encouragement for boys of color to never give up. The empowering message is created throughout the book, supporting the boy in challenges that may come. My favorite quote in the book read “Knowledge is power, oh. didn’t you know? That’s why it’s withheld: to ensure you don’t grow”. This represents the challenges of limited education that these boys may face but promotes them to keep going, educate yourself, and use the strength from those before you.
Teaching Ideas
This book can be utilized to empower students within the classroom. The students can discuss an important theme of the book, for example family. The student can then talk about how the boy was encouraged by family within the book, to follow his dreams. Students can then write about someone in their life that motivates or encourages them or how they can also support others to follow their dreams or meet their goals within the classroom.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 02, Grade 03, Grade 04
