An American Story, written by Kwame Alexander, with art by Dare Coulter. Little, Brown and Company, Hachette. 2023. $23.99 ages 8 and up

"A story 
of struggle 
and sacrifice 
about bold men
and women 
jumping 
into the sea, 
into the jaws 
of sharks 
because - 

They were scared and didn't know where they were being taken?"

Kwami Alexander brings his astonishing storytelling insight to this powerful picture book. In 32 pages he presents the full story of slavery in America. The poetry is remarkable, using perfectly chosen words to tell a story of struggle, courage, terror, a will to survive, and ultimately, hope. His words have full impact as he writes of the past and the present, always honoring Black lives. 

His poetry is heartbreaking, as it should be. There are breaks for pages with yellow backgrounds where children who are listening to this story being read have questions for the teacher. They are questions that are almost impossible to answer. At one point, their teacher wants to stop.  

"I don’t think I can continue.
It’s just too painful.
I shouldn’t have read this to you.
I’m so sorry children."

The children encourage her to continue, reminding her that she asks them to always tell the truth. Even when it's hard. They remind her that the past can't be changed, but surely there are ways to a better future. 

I read the book for its words first. Though very difficult, I am glad that I did. They have such impact. On second reading, taking the time needed to fully appreciate and wonder at the remarkably powerful artwork created by Dare Coulter, made me want to read it again and again - and still again today. The illustrations are done in mixed media, and were created using a combination of spray paint, acrylic paint, charcoal, graphite, ink and digital painting on wood panels and watercolor paper, and also using Procreate and Abobe Photoshop. The sculptures are both ceramic and polymer clay with added materials and were painted with acrylic paint and spray paint. The emotions shared from both past and present assure that readers become part of the story told. 

"How do you tell a story
that starts in Africa 
and ends in horror?"

This! This is how you do it.