 | 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. |
In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers
- By Javaka Steptoe
- Genre: Poetry
Common Sense Media says
A joyous collection of poetry about fathers.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the varied tempos, topics, and formats of the poems offer something for readers of nearly every age. Readers gain insight on both the authors' personal relationships and their collective cultural experiences as African Americans.
What's the story?
This collection includes twelve poems from a variety of well-known African-American authors, including Angela Johnson, Sonia Sanchez, Carole Boston Weatherford, Davida Adedjouma, and David A. Anderson. The poems explore the dynamics of a father/child relationship and encompass a wide range of topics: "In Daddy's Arms" celebrates the confidence children derive from their fathers: other poems, such as "Artist to Artist," focus on dreams deferred, and in "Promises," a father vows his eternal love and devotion.
Each poem occupies a two-page spread. Several poems are printed on plain white backgrounds, with the accompanying illustrations set to the side or on the facing page. For other poems, the text is superimposed directly onto illustrations that fill the pages to the edges with color.
Is it any good?
This joyous collection of poetry is a testimony to the profound impact fathers have in shaping the lives of their children. Powerful and deeply moving, the poems resonate with a heartfelt and abiding respect for the stalwart men who play a vital role in nurturing their children's physical, spiritual, and emotional growth. The poems are perfect for read-aloud sessions.
Spectacular, vibrant collages capture the essence of the poems, distilled into evocative images wrought from mundane objects. Illustrator Javaka Steptoe's choice of materials may be eclectic, but the items in each composition are intricately connected to the writing. An affirming testament to the unique relationship between fathers and children that speaks to fathers of all races who have experienced this miraculous, precious connection, this is a fabulous addition to every bookshelf.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about fathers. What makes your father special?
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title below.
| Author: | Javaka Steptoe |
| Illustrator: | Javaka Steptoe |
| Book type: | Non-Fiction |
| Genre: | Poetry |
| Publisher: | Lee & Low Books |
| Publication date: | January 1, 2000 |
| Number of pages: | 32 |
| Hardcover price: | $16.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 3 - 8 |
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 In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers?
Already read it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
