[Ibi and Loveis’s] collaboration focuses on Black resilience, a cultural inheritance powerful enough to break the curse of generational trauma. Guided by the seven principles of Kwanzaa, Zoboi’s narrative explores both the burden and the strength of collective consciousness…. The image and the words work in harmony to emphasize the limitless potential of the human spirit.” — New York Times Book Review
“This immaculately illustrated picture book walks through a vast swath of history… Zoboi’s poetic retrospective breathes life into Black history narratives and reverently celebrates Black lives.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Zoboi employs magnetic, allusive free verse to describe the course of history as experienced by members of the African diaspora and enslaved African peoples…. Zoboi’s lyrical verse is further strengthened by Wise’s eye-catching digital illustrations, composed of lushly colored images realistic and fantastical, historical and contemporary, and painted with spectacular vibrance to portray the experience of African and African American people throughout time. A rich resource ideal for Kwanzaa and beyond.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Zoboi and Wise beautifully ‘sew together a tapestry of / their stories / one fine quilt / a blanket for the children / to keep them warm, protected, and safe.’ Each brightly colored spread tells of important moments and people in African American history.…Wise’s sumptuous digital illustrations are reminiscent of the patches created by African American quilters to remind future generations of their past.” — Horn Book (starred review)
“In lyrical verses with a smoothly rolling, sonorous quality… Zoboi’s poem is a master class in conciseness, expertly evoking powerful images, concepts, and emotions out of just a handful of words, particularly when paired with Wise’s exultant art, and the robust back matter offers even more context and nuance. A must-have for holiday collections, but let its light shine throughout the rest of the year, too.” — ALA Booklist (starred review)
“Zoboi’s gorgeous prose illuminates… and Wise’s illustrations highlight the beauty of African American culture. Their color palette takes readers on an emotional journey that is also a brilliant blend of poetry, African, and African American history. Zoboi skillfully weaves together the narratives of enslaved Africans into a wonderful tapestry that is honest and beautiful. Perfect for school and public libraries, this must-have offering celebrates African American cultural identity should be included in all collections.” — School Library Journal (starred review)
“An exquisite gift book that every member of the family will appreciate.” — BookPage
