Product Description
A little Black boy finds the courage to go after his dreams in this empowering and inspirational picture book by actress Kirby Howell-Baptiste (The Sandman) with actor Larry Fields.
With vivid, dimensional illustrations by Paul Davey, this encouraging and hopeful picture book celebrates the joy of being a little Black boy and their bright futures.
Fascinated by marine wildlife, a little Black boy dreams of one day swimming in the ocean alongside all the creatures that make it their home. It will take courage to move from the safety of the swimming pool to the vastness of the ocean, but as he begins his journey of discovery, he soon finds there’s nothing he can’t do. He realizes if he cares about the animals in the ocean, he must also care about their home and sets out to preserve the beaches he loves by picking up trash. This little boy is determined not only to reach his dream of becoming a marine biologist, but to make a difference in the world and to share his passion of environmental conservation with everyone.
Little Black Boy, Oh the things you will do.
Has anyone mentioned the world’s open to you?
From School Library Journal
K-Gr 2-What can a little Black boy do? Anything! With guidance and support, this child learns that whatever he sets his mind to, he can accomplish. He is about 10-12 years old and depicted as vibrant, energetic, and curious. Readers just know he is destined to do amazing things because he has a support system to help him along the way. His interest in marine biology is fostered by caring adults and teachers. The prose-"You're here with a purpose; we're so glad you came. What starts as a spark will turn into a flame"-is positive, inviting, and flows well. A child of any culture will relate to the simple but powerful message of this book. The digitally rendered illustrations gratifyingly carry readers along as the boy's interest in marine biology expands. Pair with other inspiring titles such as Peter Reynolds's Be You or Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Dear Boy. VERDICT An encouraging story sure to touch the hearts of all readers, and a rousing story time addition.-Martha Ricoα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review
Praise for Little Black Boy:
An Amazon Best Book of the Month – November 2022
“Positive, inviting…[with a] powerful message…An encouraging story sure to touch the hearts of all readers, and a rousing story time addition.” —School Library Journal
“The illustrations and palette fit the overall theme of this rousing book. Soft shades of blue, light teal, and pale green effectively convey the overall feeling of being immersed in the landscape of the sea. The encouraging nature of the rhyming text pairs well with the illustrations. An uplifting book about the wonder and joy Black boys can find while pursuing their passions.” —Kirkus
About the Author
Kirby Howell-Baptiste is an actress from London who is best known for her memorable roles in Killing Eve, The Good Place, Barry, Why Women Kill, and Veronica Mars. In 2021, Howell-Baptiste can be seen starring in several exciting film projects including Disney's Cruella and STX Films' Queenpins. Kirby is also a well-established voice actor known for Infinity Train, Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous, Tig and Seek, and the upcoming DC animated feature Catwoman.
Larry C. Fields III is an actor, born in Detroit and raised in Virginia. He is best known for his notable roles in national and regional commercials including spots for Samsung, Dave and Buster's, and Jeep. Prior to acting, Fields served in the US Air Force where he specialized in pararescue. Larry is also a lifestyle and headshot photographer and has had work featured on Deadline and in Emmy Magazine.
Paul Davey is a Jamaican illustrator and digital artist based in London. Little Black Girl and Little Black Boy will be his debut picture books.
