Black Boy, Black Boy

by Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, Ken Daley (Illustrator)

Overview

A powerful, affirming picture book that uplifts, educates, and inspires Black boys to see themselves as heroes of their own story.

They are inventors, leaders, athletes, scholars, artists. They are sons, dreamers, and doers. Black Boy, Black Boy is a lyrical celebration of possibility and pride—perfect for parents, educators, and caregivers who want every Black child to grow up knowing they matter, they shine, and they belong.

This acclaimed picture book offers an empowering message of confidence and cultural heritage, paired with vibrant illustrations and rhythmic, read-aloud-ready text. From historical trailblazers like Elijah McCoy and Sam Cooke to present-day role models like Colin Kaepernick, the book honors the legacies that light the way forward for a new generation.

Perfect for ages 3–9, this inspiring book will:

• Build self-worth and a strong sense of identity rooted in history and pride.
• Celebrates Black history in a way that feels personal, joyful, and accessible.
• Encourages dreaming big with every page, from Colin Kaepernick to Elijah McCoy.
• A perfect gift—especially for Black History Month, birthdays, baby showers, and back-to-school.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781728250663
Publisher:	Sourcebooks
Publication date:	08/09/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	40
File size:	12 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.
Age Range:	3 - 7 Years

About the Author

Ali Biko Sulaiman Kamanda is an award-winning filmmaker and social entrepreneur from Sierra Leone, West Africa. He runs BIKO Studios, a cross-cultural film production company and is the President of Salone Rising, a not-for-profit organization that provides micro-financing and mentoring resources to small business owners in rural Sierra Leone. Jorge Redmond currently works in the Buncombe County District Attorney’s office as an Assistant District Attorney, and as an adjunct professor in South College’s Legal Department. Ali and Jorge are college friends, and BLACK BOY, BLACK BOY is their debut book.

Jorge Redmond currently works as an attorney for the Sheriff's Office in Buncombe County, North Carolina, and as an adjunct professor in South College's Legal Department.

Ken Daley is an award-winning artist/illustrator from Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. Ken’s passion lies with stories that reflect his heritage as the child of immigrants, his connection to the Caribbean, and the richness and expanse of of the African diaspora. He believes that diverse stories are essential to creating a more just and equitable world and this is something he is deeply committed to manifesting through his art.

Editorial Reviews

"When I read Black Boy, Black Boy, so many of my at-risk students came to mind. These authors have a keen understanding of how to deliver a powerful message of encouragement and hope, relevant to all readers but most especially to our black boys who can draw on the courageous leaders of the past and present to build a bright future for themselves." — Robin Overby Cox, Library Media Specialist (Benham, TX)

"It's a cool book with lots of famous people who can help me learn how to be a good person" — Roderick W., Texas student

"This ode to Black boy joy abounds in positive representation of Black men and serves as a beautiful reminder of a glorious lineage. An affirming, nurturing, and powerful celebration of Black men, past, present, and future" — Kirkus Reviews

"A wonderful letter to young Black men... Definitely a must read for any child" — Children's Literature Comprehensive Database

"A book that educates, empowers, and enlightens—this book belongs in every library" — School Library Journal, STARRED review

"Black Boy, Black Boy...inspires and informs." — Terri Schlichenmeyer, Bookworm Sez

"Full of Black boy joy, this book will be a great addition to your home library." — Fabulize Magazine

"Will captivate young readers." — Seattle Book Review

"An uplifting and gorgeously illustrated picture book." — poets.org

"A welcome gift...inspirational. " — The Eagle Times

"This beautiful picture book celebrates the future and the power of black boy joy, as a young boy is inspired by those who came before him. " — The Ashville-Citizen Times

"Black Boy, Black Boy is an ode to Black Boy Joy written in an accessible, easy-to-read poetry format... A great addition to any #RepresentationMatters classroom or library collection." — Booklist

From the Publisher

2022-06-22
A young Black boy and an adult companion journey hand in hand as they discuss the achievements of inspirational Black male figures.

The frontispiece, featuring colorful, joyful, and mosaiclike illustrations of the child and his stylishly dressed adult companion engaged in various activities, sets the tone for the opening text: “Dear boy, Black boy, rise up, it’s time. / It’s a new day and a chance to shine.” As the boy points ahead, the sun beams down, illuminating the path. A figure wearing a football uniform emblazoned with the number seven appears ahead of them (“A story of courage that starts on this day. / Courage like these men who paved a way”)—Colin Kaepernick, who is illustrated taking a knee. As they continue, the companion poses questions and suggestions to the boy (“Dear boy, / Black boy, / what do you read? / Chinua Achebe’s poems / inspirational indeed”) in mostly rhyming text accompanied by bold, vibrant illustrations. Along the way, more Black figures are introduced, among them Barack Obama, Arthur Mitchell, and Elijah McCoy. Eventually, the two arrive at a fork in the road, where the boy receives encouragement about his future and is told that he must begin his own journey. This ode to Black boy joy abounds in positive representation of Black men and serves as a beautiful reminder of a glorious lineage. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An affirming, nurturing, and powerful celebration of Black men, past, present, and future. (biographical notes about the individuals mentioned) (Picture book. 5-7)

Kirkus Reviews