In keeping with this week’s theme of Black Boy Joy. Our book of the week selection is a nod of admiration and love for the late great author and historical revolutionary, James Baldwin who was born on this day 96 years ago.
In his first and only children’s book Little Man, Little Man, Baldwin depicts a day in the life of TJ a little Black Boy who lives in a Black Community in Harlem. TJ is a normal Black Boy who plays ball outside in the neighborhood with his friends. TJ is also a very curious child, always asking questions and wanting to know more about the world in which he is growing up in. Baldwin does an amazing job at describing the thoughts of TJ and how he feels about what he sees in the neighborhood. The book shows the simplicity of childhood life but also the complexities.
The vernacular of the book is written in Ebonics; what I call the first language of Black People in America. It’s Beautiful! The ease at which Baldwin writes this book shows his true gift as a writer and a storyteller and makes this children’s book a must read for adults and children.
Happy Birthday James Baldwin! We love you, we appreciate you, and we salute you!
Zen Culture 