Five stunning new picture books that celebrate Black culture
Briefly

Despite an environment of book bans and restrictions on DEI initiatives, children's literature is flourishing with diversity. Newly published picture books are providing nuanced portrayals of Black lives, focusing on history, culture, and seemingly simple joys. Key titles include 'City Summer, Country Summer' by Kiese Laymon, which explores the bonds of friendship among Black boys during summer visits in Mississippi, and 'Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became A Writer' by Quartez Harris, which recounts Baldwin's formative years in Harlem, highlighting how personal experiences shaped his literary voice.
"The story celebrates the bonds of friendship that Black boys create, exploring how they express joy and fear together amidst their summer adventures."
"Few know of James Baldwin's childhood, where he was known as Jimmy, grappling with his identity and the impact of a preacher stepfather on his writing journey."
Read at Fast Company
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