About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing gaps in their history lessons or wonders why certain people are celebrated while others are forgotten. This poetic biography tells the true story of Arturo Schomburg, an Afro Puerto Rican law clerk who spent his life hunting down the lost and hidden history of people of African descent. Through luminous paintings and narrative poems, children will see how one person's passion for collecting books and art created one of the most important libraries in the world. It is a powerful exploration of cultural identity and the quest for justice through education. While written in a poetic format that makes it accessible for middle grade readers, the depth of research provides a rich learning experience for children aged 9 to 12. It is an ideal choice for families looking to celebrate the Harlem Renaissance and the vital importance of representation in our shared history.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book directly addresses systemic racism and the intentional erasure of Black history by white historians. The approach is realistic and historical, framed as a challenge to be overcome through intellectual rigor and preservation. It mentions the sting of prejudice but focuses on Schomburg's determination to document and celebrate Black history and culture.
