 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans
- By Kadir Nelson
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
Beautifully illustrated account of African-American history.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this in-depth picture book brings up the important topics of slavery, Jim Crow laws, gender and racial inequality, and economic disadvantage throughout the history of America, with a keen focus on African-American history. Children will better understand the economic benefits as well as the harsh realities of slavery and see the evolution of America's relationship with its African-American citizens. This will touch off questions and discussion on many of the topics still relevant today for many segments of the population.
What's the story?
Kadir Nelson tells the story of the black American experience throughout America's history. It covers the horrors of slavery, the drumbeats of war, the rise of Jim Crow laws and the resolve, determination and strength of a people determined to be a part of the country they helped built. The book explains the socio-economic reasons for slavery, Jim Crow, and the northern migration, all through a first-person narrative.
Is it any good?
Author/illustrator Nelson weaves a compelling, complex, and deeply personal historical account of the black American experience in HEART AND SOUL, which won a 2012 Coretta Scott King Award. He creates an epic narrative that shows the birth of a nation juxtaposed against the history of a people who were as responsible for supporting it as anyone else. His compelling first-person perspective combined with his absolutely stunning illustrations makes this book a must-have for any family's library. It will bring up questions of race, history, and the complexities of American society -- and that's a good thing.
Kids will enjoy the easy storytelling, and parents will appreciate how comprehensive it is, yet age appropriate.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about socio-economic inequality. Why is it important to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to pursue education and positions within American institutions? What does it say about America when this isn't possible?
Many times throughout history -- not just American history -- people have had to stand up for their beliefs, even when it wasn't popular. Why do you think it's important for humans to do this? Have you ever supported a cause?
Take turns imagining not being able to do day-to-day things because of your race or gender. How would you feel if you couldn't go to school because you were right-handed? What would you think if someone passed a law barring boys from being able to play at your favorite park?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
Kid, 12 years old
December 2, 2011
AGE
Will get older kids thinking, younger kids may only enjoy the gorgeous artwork.
Heart & Soul is an interesting look at American history from the point of view of the Africans brought over as slaves. It covers the Revolutionary war to the election of Barack Obama as president. Kids with knowledge on these points in history will likely get more out of this book, as it makes you think about how the history of the African-Americans in America was tied up with that of the White Americans, but also how it was so much different. The artwork is stunning, emphasizing points of the story. Younger kids however, may not truly understand what the story is saying.
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Topics: | great boy role models, great girl role models, history, misfits and underdogs |
| Author: | Kadir Nelson |
| Illustrator: | Kadir Nelson |
| Book type: | Non-Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publisher: | Balzer & Bray |
| Publication date: | September 27, 2011 |
| Number of pages: | 108 |
| Hardcover price: | $19.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 9 - 17 |
| Read aloud: | 17 |
| Read alone: | 17 |
Review It
Register now to save reviews and advice articles to your personal lists!
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
vote now
Will you read Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans?
Already read it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
