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Black Boy Be You

By Latoshia Martin

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Accessible narration and vivid illustrations create a background against which a little boy learns to accept and love himself.

Synopsis

Part of any child's development of a healthy self-esteem is loving what they see in the mirror. "Black Boy Be You !" is an inspirational book for African- American boys that encourages them to embrace all of their unique qualities and physical features . A day at the playground forced Isaiah to acknowledge that some of his physical attributes are different from his friends. Read how Isaiah was able to accept the parts of himself that were unlike others around him.

Regular rituals can be the highlight of the week for kids and adults alike. Isaiah loves Saturday mornings because every week, Isaiah and his mother wake up and walk together to the park where Isaiah gets to spend the morning playing with his friends. One week, a New Kid has joined in the fun, but he is not accepting of the fact that Isaiah looks different from him. Rudely, the New Kid, who is white, tells Isaiah, who is Black, that Isaiah is not allowed to play on the playground because of his differences. Isaiah’s friends stand in the background, mouths agape, as Isaiah considers the features that set him apart: his nose and lips, his hair, and his skin. After a heartwarming moment with his mother, Isaiah bravely stands up to the New Kid, claiming his rightful place on the playground. Moments later, Isaiah’s friends welcome him back with open arms.


Black Boy Be You! Is a celebration of the fortitude of little Black boys who must stand up for who they are. Even in the face of adversity, Isaiah’s innate joy is supported by his internal thoughts and the accompanying narration. Short sentences and familiar word choice make this book accessible to readers of all ages, though it is best suited to young elementary school-aged readers. The phrase “Black boy be you!” echoes throughout the story, creating a mantra to support all Black boys who have found themselves in situations similar to Isaiah’s. Vivid, expressive illustrations bring the story to life and reflect the emotions portrayed in the story. The detail even goes into Isaiah’s home, which is adorned with pictures featuring Isaiah and his family in a series of uplifting memories. Myriad backgrounds are represented in the faces of the other park-goers, showcasing a neighborhood that is generally accepting of others, despite the actions of the New Kid in the story. Though this book is particularly excellent for Black boys to enjoy, readers of all backgrounds can learn something from Isaiah’s experience. Black Boy Be You! is an important addition to all libraries for elementary school-aged readers.

Reviewed by
Mary Lanni

I review books for kids, tweens, and teens and blog about them on my website. To date, I have over 500 published reviews. Sign up for my monthly newsletter at www.maryrlanni.com to get recommendations straight to your inbox! I primarily write reviews, but will create video reviews upon request.

Black Boy Be You

Written by Latoshia Martin

Buy it nowBuy nowBuy
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Synopsis

Part of any child's development of a healthy self-esteem is loving what they see in the mirror. "Black Boy Be You !" is an inspirational book for African- American boys that encourages them to embrace all of their unique qualities and physical features . A day at the playground forced Isaiah to acknowledge that some of his physical attributes are different from his friends. Read how Isaiah was able to accept the parts of himself that were unlike others around him.

Black Boy Be You

Written by Latoshia Martin

Buy it nowBuy nowBuy
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Latoshia Martin
Latoshia Martin shared an update on Black Boy Be Youover 4 years ago
over 4 years ago
Author of Black Boys Be You - Come and check me out on martinchildrensbooks.com

2 Comments

Latoshia Martin – I would like to create a video review. What will I need to do to turn the written review into a video review.
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over 4 years ago
Mary Lanni – @latoshiamartin Hi Latoshia! I’m sorry I’m not seeing this until just now. I’d be happy to make a video review for you (if that’s what you meant). I’d just need a physical copy of the book and then I’ll make the video and send you a link!
0 likes
over 4 years ago
About the author

I am Latoshia Martin. A wife, mother, educator, and now new author. I am a mother of two young men. I have been teaching for fifteen years. Writing a children's book has always been a dream of mine. The encouragement and support of my family gave me the courage needed to publish my first book. view profile

Published on September 28, 2020

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0-1000 words

Genre:Children's

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