When Black Girls Dream Big

September 1, 2024

PreS-Gr 3-A Black child with two puffs of hair declares "I am dope./ My brown skin glows/ From the sun's touch./ Magnificent and majestic, that's me." This narrator knows who she is and who she can be, thanks to trailblazers like G.O.A.T. Serena Williams, Toni Morrison, Jacqueline Woodson, Katherine Johnson (of NASA), Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Billie Holiday, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and so many others who are profiled in the back matter, along with an author's note. Paul's illustrations have to do some heavy lifting in retaining an almost cartoon-style look to the people in the story while also conveying a wide variety of time frames, facial features, and the integrity of each personality, and he succeeds; this is accessible material that amplifies familiar voices and those not often covered. Moore's note states that this book is a love letter to her childhood self; it is, in fact, a love letter to all children about locating their role models and never thinking or feeling small. VERDICT A commanding but friendly book about empowerment and self-confidence, and a first purchase.-Kimberly Olson Fakih

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 15, 2024
An upbeat manifesto that reflects on inspirational Black women of the past and present. This book opens matter-of-factly with the declaration: "I am dope." A young Black girl confidently proclaims her royal African ancestry ("A descendant of African kings and queens. / My crown shines bright / in all its glory"). She likens herself to historical icons such as NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, astronaut Mae Jemison, abolitionist Sojourner Truth, and athlete Serena Williams. Paul's digital art makes effective use of cold-press watercolor paper, evoking the texture and fluidity of watercolors. His warm pastels complement the affirming text as the young narrator sings alongside musician Billie Holiday, writes in a journal with author Jacqueline Woodson, and high-fives First Lady Michelle Obama. In his artist's note, Paul shares that he drew inspiration from his own daughter for the book's protagonist; he hopes that other young readers will see themselves in her confidence and verve. In her author's note, Moore states that she wrote the book as a love letter to her younger self; she also includes further information on the women featured throughout. This is a loving and enlightening work that will pair well with Vashti Harrison's Little Leaders books. Be prepared for a confidence surge in all who pick this one up.(Picture book. 5-8)

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