HEART AND SOUL: THE STORY OF AMERICA AND AFRICAN AMERICANS

HEART AND SOUL: THE STORY OF AMERICA AND AFRICAN AMERICANS by Kadir Nelson

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans by Kadir Nelson is a beautifully illustrated combination of chapter and picture book. Spanning 12 chapters (101 pages), Nelson writes his book through the eyes of an unnamed black girl/woman who shares her journey as she reflects back to her ancestors and lives through major events in the black history timeline. Thought provoking quotes begin each chapter, and are great foundations for discussion about the events that follow.

Artwork in this book is pure perfection. Kadir is a master of portraying his subjects. The illustrations are worthy of being poured over and studied. From looks in facial expressions of the suffering of men chained together on a slaving ship to the steadfastness of Booker T. Washington's eyes, Kadir paints the souls of the African American in full view of the reader. There is no hiding.

ALONGSIDE ACTIVITY- Review the post about Martin Luther King, Jr and suggested activities

-Choose a black artist or musician to further study. -Enjoy some jazz, swing, blues, etc as you study.

-Google pictures of events in history

-Map states, cities, etc where significant events happened