Sunday, October 22, 2023

The New Brownies' Book: A Love Letter to Black Families


The New Brownies' Book is a beautifully photographed and curated collection of words and pictures based on W.E.B. Du Bois' original Brownies' Book (magazine published in 1920-21), and full of art and stories for and about black kids and their experiences. Released 10th Oct 2023 by Chronicle Books, it's 208 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is a beautifully edited anthology and a worthwhile read. The editors, Dr. Karida L. Brown, and fine artist Charly Palmer, have done a thorough job of curating a collection that is positive, thought provoking, uplifting, and visually appealing. The various writers and visual artists whose works make up the contributions are a mixed lot, but all contribute something tangible to the book as a whole. Readers will definitely be challenged, but also will be moved. This is a collection which is entirely age-appropriate, and it will be a good selection for public or school library acquisition, but will also affect adults in a different way, with a deeper understanding. 

Five stars. Definitely worthwhile. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

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