Black Boy, Rise

Black Boy, Rise is a deeply affirming and celebratory picture book that serves as an anthem for young Black boys. Written by Brynne Barnes and illustrated by Bryan Collier, it uses rhythmic, rhyming text and gorgeous watercolor art to highlight the power, potential, and rich legacy of Black boyhood. The book makes lyrical references to influential Black poets and writers, weaving a narrative of grit, grace, and divine promise. It's an ideal choice for parents, grandparents, and educators seeking diverse, empowering literature that positively portrays and celebrates Black children, making it a perfect gift for milestones or simply to inspire and uplift.

A bold anthem that celebrates the power and potential of young Black boys by the award-winning creative team of author Brynne Barnes and superstar illustrator Bryan Collier. From the celebrated author of Black Girl Rising and Colors of Me and four-time Caldecott Honor recipient and multiple-award-winning illustrator of Trombone Shorty, Rosa, and many more, this is a picture book to read, share, and cherish across generations. Black Boy, Rise combines gorgeous, moving text—filled with lyrical references to poets and writers whose voices have lifted and defined the Black experience, including Langston Hughes, Lucille Clifton, W. E. B. Du Bois, and James Weldon Johnson—with vibrant, beautifully rendered watercolor images that powerfully reflect the soul and gloriousness of Black boys in all their brilliance: the rich legacy of their past, the grit and grace of their present, and the divine promise of their future. BLACK JOY: This dynamic anthem speaks directly to the need of families, educators, and young readers to see the full beauty, richness, and complexity of Black boys’ experiences reflected in thoughtful, empowering children’s literature that positively portrays and celebrates Black boyhood. A GREAT GIFT: From graduation to birthdays to other milestone events, this book makes a perfect present for anyone looking to celebrate, empower, and inspire the men in their lives—whether sons, grandsons, nephews, cousins, or friends. AFRICAN AMERICAN BOOKS FOR KIDS: For fans of All Because You Matter and Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut, Brynne Barnes brings a fresh spin with her rhythmic rhyming text that exhorts readers to “Make beauty. Make joy. Make believe, and pretend. Make wonder. Makes wishes. Make magic begin.” Perfect for: Parents, grandparents, and caregivers Teachers and librarians seeking diverse books Anyone interested in books about Black joy or Black history Gift-givers looking for a unique and inspiring book for the boys (or men) in their lives Readers who loved Martin’s Big Words, I Am Every Good Thing, and Black Boy Joy