How To Improve Self-Esteem In The African American Child

This book addresses some of the cultural influences that race and color of skin has had on the african American Child.

Kelly Roque - Children's Literature

The purpose of this previously released self-help book is to promote self-esteem in African American children through activities, information and affirmations. A chapter focusing on the history of Africans in America discusses slavery and a general mindset by non-Africans that contributed to the deterioration of self-esteem for many African-Americans. Journaling exercises include recording positive alternatives for negative or violent behaviors, filling out a family tree and keeping track of characteristics they like or do not like about themselves, among many others. This book encourages teachers, therapists and African-American families to help children get in touch with their heritage and develop a sense of ethnic pride through self-examination and spiritually based teachings. What is discouraging about this book is the lack of attention to grammar and language. Concepts and even exact phrases are repeated in some chapters, making it tedious to get through the information. Additionally awkward grammar, typos and punctuation mistakes overshadow the book's worthiness. Although the basic content is eye opening, valuable information for African and non-African readers, it would be best used in a classroom or group setting by pulling individual exercises out for discussion. 2004, P.S.I. Publishers, Ages 14 up.