Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Black Boy

Age Range: 6 - 11
Grade Level: 1 - 6
The New York Times’ 14 Antiracist Books for Kids and Teens
Kirkus Reviews Best of 2018, Middle Grade Poetry
School Library Journal, Best Books 2018, Poetry
Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices 2019
Bank Street College of Eduction Best Children's Books 2019
Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award Honor Book 2019
Arnold Adoff Poetry Awards 2020, Special Recognition
For classroom and reading resources, click here.

SUMMARY

These short, vibrant tanka poems about Black boys and young men depict thirteen views of everyday life: dressed in Sunday best, running to catch a bus, growing up to be teachers, and much more. Each of Tony Medina’s tanka is matched with a different artist―including recent Caldecott and Coretta Scott King Award recipients.

Follow the lives of these boys and discover the magic that they bring to the world in this captivating book.

REVIEWS

"This shining title deserves a spot in all poetry collections."–-Della Farrell, School Library Journal

"The fascinating illustrations matched with the dazzling imagery of Medina’s tanka make this a captivating release."―Kirkus Reviews

"The very different artistic renderings, which range from solid to psychedelic, all catch the eye. Though short (only 31 syllables over 5 lines), the poems pack a punch and are a great introduction to reading poetry and the art of writing it. Teachers and other adults will find many ways to use this with children." ―Booklist