My Black Life Matters (What I Tell Myself) by Michael A. Brown

A powerful and timely children’s book, My Black Life Matters (What I Tell Myself) by Michael A. Brown is a celebration of community, friendship, and open communication. Told through a cast of young African-American characters, each of whom are struggling with their own sense of purpose and value, this book reminds young readers that adversity doesn’t diminish personal worth. Touching on a number of delicate issues, from physical and sexual abuse to self-esteem, truth-telling, and cultural stereotypes, Brown is unafraid to look modern problems square in the face and produce work that challenges unfair norms. The dialogue and prose could use a light polish, particularly some of the inconsistent rhyme patterns, but the illustrations are evocative, and the underlying message to young readers is profoundly important.