I AM NOT ILLEGAL.
WHY DON'T YOU GO BACK
TO YOUR OWN COUNTRY?
IS NOT MY FAVORITE SONG
GET OUT!
IS NOT MY NAME.
NO MORE BORDERS.
NO MORE WALLS."
If it is hard for adults to understand all that is going on politically in the present climate and how it is affecting each one of us, imagine the concern for many young people. To their rescue (and hopefully to yours as you try to encourage them to think positively) comes this wonderful anthology of work from a diverse group of extraordinary writers.
Ashley Bryan provides an uplifting foreword:
"If you flip through all the creative gems put into your hands
and hearts by the gifts of people of color, we will hear your voices
chanting praises.
Then, as you read, you will realize this is not a onetime read but
a resource for rescue from any pitfalls of the day."
There are essays, poems, stories and letters from an incredibly diverse group of writers and artists whose intent is to bring peace and inspiration to those young people who read it. Some of my favorites are included here, and I was blown away by their willingness to help readers see that there is much good in the world. That is what we cling to when so much seems out of control around us.
Kwame Alexander's poem talks about the fear his daughter feels for her father being arrested if he drives too fast, and his being taken away from her. In a letter from Rita Williams-Garcia, she asks her readers to 'be of service' to themselves, their families, their community, and to reject ignorance. Sharon Draper shares the prayers of her grandmother with her own children:
"I now give the grandmothers' warnings
With mac and cheese spoonfuls of love.
I show them the joy and the rainbows
Wrapped in hope on the wings of a dove.
Stay safe, my child, I whisper.
Come home to me each night."
Most pages are accompanied by photographs and illustrations in varied media. That variety, in both text and art, works well to encourage and uplift those who read it. Terrible times have been endured throughout history and working together has provided solace and power when needed. It is a difficult time, choosing kindness when facing hatred and bigotry may be the most difficult thing of all. But, it is worth it!
"Throughout history, kids like you
were right there.
With picket signs and petitions.
With heart and humility.
With bravery and brilliance.
They changed the world for the better.
And you will too.
Tell your story.
To anyone who will listen.
To hear it yourself.
You matter."
Be brave. Be kind.
It is a lesson for each and every one of us in the face of such adversity.
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