Parents' Guide to The Last Stand

Book Antwan Eady Picture Book 2024
The Last Stand book cover: An older Black man, standing in the cargo bed of a truck, hands a younger Black man a pumpkin.

Common Sense Media Review

Diondra K. Brown By Diondra K. Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

A heartfelt love letter to Black farmers, past and present.

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What's the Story?

On Saturdays, Papa and Little Earl harvest their crops and then go to open THE LAST STAND at their local farmer's market. As the years have gone by, more and more Black farmers in their community have lost their businesses—leaving Papa and Little Earl as the last ones standing. The last ones to take a stand for equality. Papa works diligently to hold on to his business and serve the people of his town, while his grandson, Little Earl, is inspired by his commitment and works to carry on his legacy.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This is a heartwarming book about an American story that's often forgotten about or unknown. The Last Stand highlights the historical struggles of Black farmers in the United States, sharing the all-too-familiar story of Black business owners, past and present, who have had to fight tirelessly to keep their businesses alive. Papa and Little Earl's story comes to life in the touching illustrations and lyrical text of the book. The story can inspire readers to take a stand for what they believe in, and support their community members.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how The Last Stand's author's note shares information about the struggles of Black farmers in the United States. Why were they discriminated against? What's being done to help Black farmers now?

  • How do Papa and Little Earl showed perseverance? Why is perseverance important?

  • Have you ever been to a farm stand or farmer's market? What did the farmers look like? What did the farmers sell?

  • Earl and Little Earl sell pumpkins, peppers, plums, and eggs. Which one do you think is the hardest thing to harvest, and why?

Book Details

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The Last Stand book cover: An older Black man, standing in the cargo bed of a truck, hands a younger Black man a pumpkin.

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