Celebrating Civil Rights and Independence Day!
This week, we celebrate Independence Day (4th of July). While this summer holiday often involves fun activities such as parades, outdoor barbecues, and fireworks, it is also a time to reflect on the work in progress that is our democracy. In addition, July 2nd marks the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act (1964) and the Summer of 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer (June 14, 1964 to August 20, 1964). The books selected this week focus on the great diversity of our nation and the opportunities and challenges we all share.
Joyful Reading!
Blue Sky White Stars
Written by Sarvinder Naberhaus, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
This richly textured book pays homage to the flag of the United States and all that it represents. Sarvinder Naberhaus’ sparce text creatively utilizes homophones and repetition to juxtapose aspects of the flag, its history, and its meanings. Kadir Nelson’s illustrations brilliantly capture the natural beauty of the country and the diversity of its peoples. The simplicity of this book provides ample opportunity for discussion and exploration. Author and illustrator notes provide readers with additional material and food for thought.
America the Beautiful: Together We Stand
Written by Katharine Lee Bates (1859-1929), illustrated by Bryan Collier, Jon J Muth, Diane Goode, Mary GrandPre, Raúl Colón, Sonia Lynn Sadler (1958 - 2013), Yuyi Morales, John Hendrix, LeUyen Pham, and Chris Soentpiet.
Katharine Lee Bates’ patriotic poem/anthem is beautifully illustrated by ten award-winning illustrators. Each double-page spread features an illustrator’s interpretation of a stanza from the poem, accompanied by an iconic symbol or landmark from American history, and quote from a U.S. President. The book’s back matter includes descriptions of the of the symbols and landmarks, a biography of Katharine Lee Bates, and the full America the Beautiful poem.
America My Love, America My Heart
Written and Illustrated by Daria Peoples-Riley
In the closing of her author’s note, Daria Peoples-Riley states, “My hope is that this book will inspire you to retain, reclaim, and revitalize all of who you are and most importantly to write and tell your historia.” This provocative book explores the complex relationship that people of color have with America. The narrator of this book, while professing their love for America, questions if America loves them back, occasionally utilizing Spanish and Louisiana Creole to accentuate their questions. The illustrations reflect the sober nature of this book, presented in shades of grey, peppered with red, white, and blue throughout. This is a thought-provoking book which closes on a positive note with, “America, I am you. America, you are me.”
The Highlights Foundation sponsored an interview with Daria Peoples conducted by author/illustrator Pat Cummings.
Beyond the Books
The EveryMom has curated 30 Fun and Easy Fourth of July Activities to do with Kids, featuring craft projects, baked goods, and more.
For adults, the National Archives has prepared a comprehensive history of the Declaration of Independence. PBS has produced a documentary on Freedom Summer, with accompanying content and additional films and content on the Civil Rights Movement. This is a good time of year for all of us to reacquaint ourselves with this history and to expand our knowledge.