There’s one book I can’t stop thinking about– STAR CHILD: A BIOGRAPHICAL CONSTELLATION OF OCTAVIA ESTELLE BUTLER by Ibi Zoboi.
The brilliant combination of poetry and nonfiction is what drew me to Zoboi’s amazing middle-grade biography of author Octavia Butler. Telling the story of a life in poems requires such precision and artistry. Zoboi does this in a way that is seamless and spare and beautiful.
This is one of my favorite books for young readers that I’ve read recently. Zoboi acts as a sculptor—paring, shaping, and providing just the right detail in just the right words to deliver a poetic portrait of a powerful woman and commanding writer. This beautiful book recently won an Honor in the We Need Diverse Books 2023 Walter Awards.
Don’t miss it!
On Fridays, I love taking part in Poetry Friday when I can, where writers share resources about children’s poetry. This week, Marcie Flinchum Atkins hosts the Poetry Friday Roundup today at her blog. Check out the celebration of poetry there today!
This book is on my shelf and I’m excited to read it!
I’m sure you’ll love it, Laura! Thanks for commenting.
Hi Mary! I’ll put this on my list. Thanks.
Thanks, Janice! Enjoy!
I have fairly recently discovered the writings of Octavia Butler (and am working my way through everything I can find). Now this looks to add even more to what I want to read. Thanks for sharing.
I think it will make your reading even more rewarding, Kay!
Oooh! Adding to my must-read list!! Thanks.
You’re so welcome, Mary Lee. Enjoy!
I read Kindred with my students, ensuring that they knew of her, now wishing I could tell them about this book. It’s new to me, Mary. Thank you for sharing about it! On my list!
You’re so welcome, Linda. I think you’re really going to love it.
I agree! I loved reading this book. I read it over the winter break and I was really taken by it and the way she structured it.
Yes! I really studied her structure, Marcie! Thanks for your comment.
Mary, thank you for sharing this book. I am going to reserve it now. I am intrigued about a poetic biography, and who better, yes?!
Thanks, Patricia! I think you’ll really enjoy it!
Thanks for the recommendation, Mary. Just added to my tbr shelf!
Thanks for sharing this! I’ve read a couple of Zoboi’s books with Haitian themes. This looks good too! Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com
Thanks for sharing “Star Child!” and for your enthusiasm, it sounds wonderful!