Author and Illustrator: Kadir Nelson Katherine Tegen Books May 2019
Synopsis (From Publisher):
In this lush, acclaimed book, award-winning author-illustrator Kadir Nelson tells the story of global icon and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela in poignant free verse and glorious illustrations.
It is the story of a young boy’s determination to change South Africa, and of the struggles of a man who eventually became the president of his country. Mandela believed in equality for all people, no matter the color of their skin. Readers will be inspired by Mandela’s triumph and his lifelong quest to create a more just world.
CWR Review:
Summary: In brief, elegant prose, Kadir Nelson tells the story of Nelson Mandela’s life. This beautifully illustrated work is not comprehensive by any means, but Mr. Nelson has the ability to summarize a history succinctly, yet thoroughly, and therefore, an audience of any age will enjoy a brief look into the life of a true civil rights hero. Starting from his boyhood, Mr. Nelson walks the reader through Mandela’s humble beginnings, inner stirrings for justice, relentless pursuit of change, imprisonment, and then eventually his release and election as leader of South Africa.
My thoughts: Kadir Nelson is no stranger to writing biographies. He has a unique ability to act as author, historian, and illustrator in consistent, credible, talented fashion. This work is no exception. The story is told simply but with the grit and punch, qualities that are typical of Kadir’s work. He shares a sensitive and horrifying history without the bitterness so prevalent in modern works on injustice and discrimination. Kadir Nelson is a credible historian that wears no chip on his shoulder, he can retell a story and remain faithful to the true events, while retaining the dignity of key characters in both text and illustration.
5 stars, impressive, worthy of your shelf space. Get yours here or here.
Themes- African history, Justice, Biography
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