Book Review of Black Girl You Are Atlas
The Children’s Book Review
Black Girl You Are Atlas
Written by Renée Watson
Art by Ekua Holmes
Ages 12+ | 96 Pages
Publisher: Kokila | ISBN-13: 978-0593461709
What to Expect: Poetry, Identity, Resilience, Empowerment, Race, Class, and Gender.
Black Girl You Are Atlas by Renée Watson, illustrated by Ekua Holmes, is a poignant and empowering collection of poetry that celebrates the resilience, strength, and identity of Black girls. Through Watson’s evocative words and Holmes’ stunning illustrations, readers are invited into a world where intersecting identities of race, class, and gender are explored with depth and nuance.
In this remarkable collection of various poetic forms, Watson delves into her own experiences in this semi-autobiographical book. Including playful moments to profound reflections and a nod to 80s childhood and 90s teendom, the poems span a range of emotions and themes, offering readers a rich tapestry of Black girlhood.
The title itself, Black Girl You Are Atlas, is a powerful affirmation. It draws parallels between the strength of Black girls and the mythological figure of Atlas, who bears a heavy burden (a Titan who for his part in the Titans’ revolt against the gods is forced by Zeus to support the heavens on his shoulders). Throughout the book, Watson explores the significance of this metaphor, reminding readers of the resilience and power inherent within them.
Watson’s poetry serves as a mirror for readers, reflecting their experiences and identities with honesty and authenticity. Through her words, she invites readers to see themselves and their stories reflected in the book’s pages, fostering a sense of belonging and pride—providing genuine representation and empowerment for Black girls in literature, particularly poetry.
Holmes’ illustrations significantly enhance the collection’s impact, adding depth and beauty to Watson’s poetry. Each mixed-media piece—curated from Holmes’ collages, including two original pieces specifically created for this project—incorporates cut and torn papers sourced, painted, and meticulously prepared. The artwork seamlessly captures the nuanced emotions and themes of the poems with striking imagery and vibrant colors.
Black Girl You Are Atlas is a masterpiece of contemporary poetry that speaks to the heart and soul of readers. It is a testament to the power of poetry as a tool for social change and empowerment. Renée Watson and Ekua Holmes have created a timeless work of art that deserves to be celebrated and cherished by readers everywhere.
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About the Author
Renée Watson is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, educator, and community activist. Her books have sold over one million copies. Her young adult novel, Piecing Me Together (Bloomsbury, 2017), received a Coretta Scott King Award and a Newbery Honor. Her children’s picture books and novels for teens have received several awards and international recognition. She has given readings and lectures at many places, including the United Nations, the Library of Congress, and the U.S. embassies in Japan and New Zealand. Her poetry and fiction center the experiences of Black girls and women, and explore themes of home, identity, and the intersections of race, class, and gender.
About the Illustrator
Ekua Holmes is a collage-based artist who investigates family histories, relationship dynamics, childhood impressions, and the power of hope, faith, and self-determination in her work. She has created and led workshops, been a visiting artist and lecturer, and held artist residencies throughout New England. For her work in illustrating children’s literature, Holmes is the recipient of a Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King’s John Steptoe New Talent Illustrator Award, Robert Siebert and Horn Book awards. She is also currently Commissioner and Vice-Chair of the Boston Art Commission, along with Associate Director at the Center for Art and Community Partnerships at MassArt.
Bianca Schulze reviewed Black Girl You Are Atlas, by Renée Watson.
