Rock of Ages

• Age Range: 3 - 7 years

• Grade Level:  Preschool - 2

  For classroom and reading resources, click here.

SUMMARY

In her moving homage to the Black Church, Tonya Bolden writes a poem spanning centuries of oppression, freedom, prejudice, and joy. From times when slaves worshipped secretly in fields at night to the grand city churches of today, the Church is there to help its community, inspire its congregants, and teach us what is possible when people join together.

This beautifully poetic storybook shows the importance of faith and tradition to black communities.

REVIEW

“Bolden tells readers that she was inspired by the words of a friend, "If you don't know about the Black Church, you don't know about the black experience." This moving tribute presents different aspects of the Church's history, including its role during slavery, its nurturing of artistic and political talent, its support of the needy, and its enduring spirit. The rhythmic text is best read aloud. "She lives in cathedralettes, in city-brick/with faux stained glass,/-Arms ever-always open-." Christie's stylized, unbalanced portraits exude an effective emotional force of their own, complementing the text throughout.”—Alicia Eames, New York City Public Schools