* “A kid lit giant extends a mighty message of love. Hudson addresses readers directly . . . using names that recognize the diversity of the African American community. He heartily affirms the movement, beauty, bodies, dreams, struggles, strengths, and fears of Black boys. . . . Word choices demonstrate a deep appreciation for Black culture. . . . Mallet’s largely sepia-toned digital painted illustrations reflect the author’s intimate perspective. Boys appear in familiar scenarios, playing basketball, dancing, making music, and learning. . . . Hudson leaves readers with a message of love and strength. . . . Written from a place of love and deeply attuned to the emotional needs of Black boys.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* “Hudson and Mallett celebrate the beauty, vulnerability, and limitless potential of Black boys via a set of portraits that emphasizes individuals’ gifts and importance within their families and communities. The lyrical prose introduces a diverse cast of boys, each with distinct dreams, fears, and aspirations. Each stanza opens with an intimate affirmation of the individual. . . . Whether imagining the future, helping others, navigating uncertainty, or discovering who they are, the boys are portrayed with tenderness and dignity in realistic, energetic digital paintings. . . . It adds up to a meaningful celebration of identity, possibility, and being seen.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Hudson, coeditor of The Talk: Conversations About Race, Love and Truth, delivers a poetic anthem dedicated to Black boys in this stunningly illustrated picture book. Each page functions as a standalone portrait of an individual Black child, with words and text showcasing his unique individuality. . . . Each double-page spread pays tribute to the strength and impact of Black youth. . . . Mallett’s luminous, digitally painted portraits beautifully capture each boy’s distinct personality and spirit, while the resonant refrain, ‘I see you, Black boy,’ grounds each mini poem. This powerful celebration joins the esteemed ranks of uplifting picture book portraits of Black masculinity, such as Kwame Alexander’s The Undefeated and Derrick Barnes’s Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut. A vital and welcome addition to library collections, providing joyous and celebratory representation and a beautiful mirror for young Black readers.” —School Library Journal
