Beautiful Blackbird. Ashley Bryan. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2003. 30 pages. $16.95 (Hardcover) ISBN 0-689-84731-9. Grades K-2.
“Black is beautiful, UH-HUH!” This chant rang out in the forest of Africa before birds had patterned, multicolored, or unique plumage. All the birds of marvelous colors declared that Blackbird was the most beautiful because his feathers gleam all colors of the sun. Pretty soon all the birds were asking for some blackening tint. Of course Blackbird was willing to share, but he was adamant saying, “We’ll see the difference a touch of black can make. Just remember, whatever I do, I’ll be me and you’ll be you.” Ashley Bryan praises the beauty of color and individuality in this upbeat story. Adapting an African tale, Bryan incorporates rhythm, rhyme, dance and song in to the story to make it authentic. This colorful story is a celebration of what is on the inside and heritage. Winner of the Coretta Scott King Award, Beautiful Blackbird will inspire pride and acceptance of culture and self. A great selection for a read aloud story time. Recommended
No comments:
Post a Comment