The New Brownies' Book: A Love Letter to Black Families

NAACP Image Award and Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) Literary Award Winner

"[A] heartfelt tribute to young people of color and their 'reflection of resplendent beauty, ancient history ... and irreplaceable value.' It's a standout." ―Publishers Weekly, starred review

Inspired by the groundbreaking work of W. E. B. Du Bois, this beautiful collection brings together an outstanding roster of Black creative voices to honor, celebrate, and foster Black excellence.

The New Brownies' Book reimagines the very first publication created for African American children in 1920 as a must-have anthology for a new generation. Expanding on the mission of the original periodical to inspire the hearts and minds of Black children across the country, esteemed scholar Karida L. Brown and award-winning artist Charly Palmer have gathered the work of more than fifty contemporary Black artists and writers. The result is a book bursting with essays, poems, photographs, paintings, and short stories reflecting on the joy and depth of the Black experience--an immersive treasure trove that reminds readers of all ages that Black is brilliant, beautiful, and bold.

IMPORTANT HISTORICAL LEGACY: In 1920, W. E. B. Du Bois and the founders of the NAACP published The Brownies' Book: A Monthly Magazine for Children of the Sun, which included art, stories, letters, and activities to inspire children, share Black history, and celebrate their identities. As the first periodical for African American youth, this was an important work in the history of children's literature. The New Brownies' Book revives its mission to inspire the young readers of today.

INCREDIBLE CONTRIBUTORS: This book features the work of talented and exciting Black creators, including playwright and poet Ntozake Shange, writer and editor Damon Young, Def Poetry Jam co-creator and painter Danny Simmons, sociologist and educator Dr. Bertice Berry, children's book illustrator James E. Ransome, muralist Fabian Williams, collage artist Marryam Moma, and many more.

BEAUTIFUL KEEPSAKE: This collection presents a celebratory array of artwork, from detailed paintings and drawings to photographs and collages. It includes stories meant to be shared by children and adults, offering a way for all families--especially Black families--to connect across generations through the power of literature. With its meaningful content and deluxe packaging, this hardcover volume makes a thoughtful gift for new parents, grandparents, or inquisitive readers of all ages.

Perfect for:

• Parents, grandparents, and young readers, especially in the Black community
• Artists and writers inspired by themes of family, community, and empowerment
• Adults and teens who work with and care for young children
• Youth program leaders and community organizers
• Teachers, librarians, and educators
• Fans of the contributing artists and writers
• Art book collectors
• Audiences who seek out racial diversity and representation in the media they consume
• Fans of The Fire This Time, Glory: Magical Visions of Black Beauty, and Black Futures

Author: Karida L. Brown, Charly Palmer
Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Published: 10/10/2023
Series: Brownies
Pages: 208
Weight: 2.95lbs
Size: 11.20h x 9.30w x 0.90d
ISBN: 9781797216829


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 08/28/2023
Shelf Awareness 10/18/2023

About the Author
Karida L. Brown is a sociologist, educator, and writer whose research focuses on the relationship between race, social transformations, and communal memory. She is a professor at Emory University and the inaugural Diane Nash Descendants of the Emancipation Chair at Fisk University's John Lewis Center for Social Justice. She lives in Atlanta.

Charly Palmer is an award-winning fine artist, graphic designer, and illustrator. He was born in Fayette, Alabama, raised in Milwaukee, and currently teaches at Spelman College in Atlanta, where he lives with his wife, Karida Brown. He has illustrated many children's books, including The Teachers March! How Selma's Teachers Changed History, My Rainy Day Rocket Ship, and Mama Africa!: How Miriam Makeba Spread Hope With Her Song.