Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Emotional book ties 500-year history to Kwanzaa principles.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE PEOPLE REMEMBER encompasses a collective history of African descendants in America from 1518 to 2021. In a developmentally appropriate manner, the book shares the great joys and accomplishments of African descendants in the United States, as well as the unjust sorrows that have been forced upon them. The importance of the impact of major historical events, such as the Civil War and the Black Power movement, are featured alongside the accomplishments of prominent figures, such as President Barack Obama and Alice Walker. The book is about survival and innovation, death and life, celebration and loss. The story connects all of these themes, to the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Is It Any Good?
Author Ibi Zoboi expertly takes readers through the heart-wrenching and spiritual journey of African descendants in America in this emotional book. The experience of reading The People Remember is both saddening and hopeful. Readers are drawn in to the 30-page story with bright, rich, dynamic illustrations. This is a must-read for audiences young and old to better understand the course of history for African descendants in America. We can't know where we're going without knowing how we got here.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the seven principles of Kwanzaa inspired The People Remember. Did you learn something new about Kwanzaa? Is this a holiday you and your family celebrate? If so, what's your favorite tradition?
The People Remember discusses events from a long period of history. What is something new you learned about American history from the book?
Some things in the book are hard to read about or see. Discuss your feelings with a parent, teacher, or trusted adult in your life.
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Loveis Wise
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Activism , History
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Balzer + Bray
- Publication date : September 29, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 64
- Available on : Hardback
- Award : Coretta Scott King Medal and Honors
- Last updated : November 25, 2025
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