The Harlem Renaissance

Children's Literature

As the title indicates, this book focuses solely on the Harlem Renaissance. Rau defines what this time period offered—when literature, art, and music flourished in the black community during the 1920s—and explains why this movement was revolutionary for its time. She offers a brief background detailing the hurdles the African American community had to overcome, and why many settled in the neighborhood of Harlem. Biographies of key individuals are offered, such as author Langston Hughes and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston. Furthermore, Rau describes how the performing arts flourished as well. While she includes the hardships that this community faced, such as the high cost of living and the effects of the Great Depression, she concludes by illustrating how the movement influenced our world today. Nearly every page contains a historical photograph or a copy of Harlem Renaissance artwork, which makes the ideas more real for the reader. At the conclusion of all the books in the "We The People" series, there is a glossary of terms that is relevant to the topic, a "Did You Know?" list of historical facts, a timeline, and, perhaps best of all, a listing of additional resources, such as books and websites. Overall this is an excellent tool to assist a child learning about a key period in African American history and is a great addition to a library's collection. 2006, Compass Point Books, Ages 9 to 12.
—Elizabeth Sulock

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-These books give basic information on significant events or movements in American history. Each opening chapter describes the event or social trend, with subsequent coverage given to background factors and effects. Haymarket Square, for example, addresses the event itself; the rise of unions; the relationship (perceived and actual) among unions, socialism, and anarchism; the movement for an eight-hour work day; protest against police violence; and the trial and sentencing of those accused of inciting the riot. Chapters run from four to eight pages and are heavily illustrated with period reproductions and photos. The leading is good, with ample white space, giving the texts an open, nonthreatening look. The prose is hardly lyrical, but it recounts the events clearly. Adequate for beginning researchers, these short informational treatments may spark sufficient interest to lead to more in-depth studies. Similar to the "Cornerstones of Freedom" series (Children's Press), the "We the People" volumes can be used to flesh out history collections.-Ann Welton, Grant Elementary School, Tacoma, WA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.