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Both books give differing perspectives on the black experience in their own voices. – Julia Hale
appreciate the level of engagement the Shadowers have had with this book. A massive thank you to all the schools and libraries who took part and selected The Black Flamingo. It’s such an honour!”
What the Shadowers say “The Black Flamingo was a truly fantastic book which tells the story of a young boy growing up and discovering his identity. An experience which many people go through themselves. The story is addictive and compelling and left me craving for more and more.” – Ciara, Queen’s Bees
“I find this book really inspiring because it shows people that they can be their own person and think how they want to be.” – Jude, SPS Shadowers
“This was very different from books I would normally read, however I really enjoyed it and following Mike along his journey of belonging, finding his place in the world, his identity and about being free.” – Tabi, Birkenhead School
The Undefeated
by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson (Andersen Press) The Undefeated is an incredible and moving depiction of Black History that provides both spoken and unspoken insights. Written by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by US Artist Kadir Nelson, there’s a vigour behind the hyper-realistic illustration which, combined with their photorealism, makes them feel almost confrontational at point.
A powerful and important ode to black history; highlighting the unspeakable trauma of slavery, the faith and fire of the civil rights movement, and the grit, passion, and perseverance of some of the world’s greatest artists, athletes, and activists. With references to lyrics and lines originally shared by our most celebrated
Autumn-Winter 2020
heroes, it offers deeper insights into the accomplishments of the past, while bringing attention to the endurance and spirit of those surviving and thriving in the present. Strong, confrontational, defiant, and proud, this story of black history and black lives provides a powerful reading experience. Luminous hyper-
realistic images and photorealism techniques produce accurate and realistic representations of people who have traditionally not been represented accurately. Nelson’s use of light and shadow, and deep shifting hues and tones, give a sense of movement. Whilst confident use of negative space, particularly on the “unspeakable” and, therefore, undrawable pages, encourage the reader to slow down. Moving, horrifying, but ultimately joyful, proud and hopeful The Undefeated leaves an indelible impression upon the reader. Kadir said: “It’s such an honour to be selected for the Kate Greenaway Medal Shadower’s Choice Award by school children overseas! I’m totally honoured and humbled by the news.”
What the Shadowers say “This book has a strong message about Black Lives Matter. It is a poem celebrating some of the greatest African America people who fought for their race and of people that continue to fight for their race. I felt this book’s message is to never give up.” – Emily, Millfield Readers
“It is a an amazing and unforgettable
book.The illustrations are magical all the way through. It is a very strong and powerful poem and uses words to show
the spirits.” – Zunairah, Swanshurst School Greenaway Group
“I was blown away by the beautiful illustrations of this book and how it managed to capture the injustice in a way that made their achievements all the more powerful. I can’t wait to use this with the children when exploring the 1960s.”
Kadir Nelson. Photo © David Walter Banks
– Mrs T, Hanwell Fields Shadowing Group PEN&INC.
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