The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson

The Undefeated is Kwame Alexander's (author of The Crossover) poem written as a tribute to his new born daughter and the election of Barack Obama, the first African American president. It honors the rich history of African Americans as well as recognizes their hardship and struggle for freedom and equity that continues to this day. It beautifully rejoices achievements in the arts, sports, civil rights and culture as well as pays somber tribute to events and sacrifices made in slave trade, the Civil War, and the lives of African Americans taken by prejudice and hate.

 

Kadir Nelson's oil on panels are rich and powerful. The pages of black text on blank white pages help communicate the message and its importance. This is appropriate for all age groups and can spark a multitude of conversations regarding all aspects of race, slavery, heroism, as well as personal and communal achievement. 

Mark's Book Picks Score: Non-Fiction

Dewey: 811 • Reading Level: 2.6 • Interest Level: K-3 • AR Points: 0.5 • Lexile Level: NA • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin • Pages: 40• Copyright: 2018 • ISBN: 978-1-328-78096-6 • Available in Perma-Bound Binding