The Negro Speaks of Rivers (by Langston Hughes)

This short poem by Langston Hughes was considered to be the "song of the Harlem Renaissance."  Using the river as its primary symbol, it captures the history of African-American people from ancient times to today, and celebrates their courage and strength. Illustrator E.B. Lewis has created watercolors that bring the lines of the poem to life and make them accessible, and even more meaningful, to readers of all ages.

This is a beautiful illustration of Hughes' classic poem, and one that will help all readers, but especially kids, understand the words that Langston Hughes wrote. The poem is moving, both real and spiritual, and the watercolors are breathtaking. The illustrator's note on the final page explains his own connection to the poem and the paintings, and adds a further element of meaning to the book. And, to show the depth of his connection, he has depicted himself as the person who is praying while being embraced by the river.

Sensitive, moving watercolors bring amazing depth and meaning to the lines of the poem that are printed against the various river scenes. Spanning the stretch of time from before the pyramids to the modern day, some paintings are dark, others filled with light, but all with the delicate kind of strength that Langston Hughes expressed in his words.  

Author: Langston Hughes
Illustrator: E.B. Lewis
Publisher: Jump at the Sun
Publication date: January 6, 2009
Number of pages: 32
Hardcover price: $16.99
Read Aloud: 4
Read Alone: 7