Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Saunders
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Stunning art and poems of Black girls' struggle and triumph.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
BLACK GIRL YOU ARE ATLAS is a collection of poems organized around the girl narrator's journey from age 7 to age 17. It tracks her growing awareness of the troubles of the world, in her family, history, and society. The poet offers validation for the sorrow and burdens Black girls carry but encourages them to seek laughter, joy and the love and sisterhood of women.
Is It Any Good?
This is a sensitive, well-written set of poems accompanied by lush illustrations. In Black Girl You Are Atlas by Renée Watson, the author demonstrates proficiency in her craft, as she experiments with multiple forms, such as a lyrical pantoum in tribute to Breonna Taylor and haikus celebrating all women punctuating the collection. The rich colors in Ekua Holmes' collages call Frida Kahlo to mind: Many shades of brown skin are represented, and butterflies and flowers appear often as symbols for love. This book might make a lovely mother-daughter gift or shared reading to launch a discussion of current events, resilience, and connection.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of perseverance in Black Girl You Are Atlas. What are some of the ways the author suggests Black girls build resilience in order to embrace their futures?
How does gratitude contribute to the perspective of the speakers of these poems. What are you grateful for?
The poet uses many different kinds of poetic forms (deliberate patterns in the lines) in this collection. Choose a favorite and analyze how the form affected the way its messages were communicated.
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Ekua Holmes
- Genre : Poetry
- Topics : Activism , History
- Character Strengths : Communication , Gratitude , Perseverance
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Kokila
- Publication date : February 13, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 96
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Awards : Common Sense Selection , Coretta Scott King Medal and Honors
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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