Inheritance: A Visual Poem by Elizabeth Acevedo, Andrea Pippins
Published by Quill Tree Books on May 3, 2022
ISBN: 0062931946
Pages: 48
Genres: Fiction in Verse/Poetry
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

***A note on format: this could probably best be described as a “picture book in verse”***

Elizabeth Acevedo is best known for her acclaimed novels in free verse (The Poet X, Clap When You Land), but she is also an award-winning spoken word poet – and her talents shine in Inheritance, a newly illustrated edition of one of her poems which crackles with energy and power even from the printed page. The volume could be described as a love letter, in the best possible way: a declaration of love for the hair which she is far too often told to “fix,” and of pride in her culture and history. At once a scathing critique of Eurocentric beauty standards and a celebration of self-love, this ode to hair as a symbol of identity is both deeply personal and fiercely political. Andrea Pippin’s accompanying art is bold and evocative, a perfect compliment to the text. Inheritance is appropriate for all ages, from children to adults.

As a note, the poem was originally called “Hair” and is available as a spoken word performance on YouTube; I would highly recommend providing a link to Acevedo’s reading, with a note on the book itself for patrons who might borrow it – both reading and watching it creates a stunningly multilayered and powerful experience.

Highly recommended for all libraries and for the Cream of the Crop.

Reviewed by Jenny Martinez Nocito, Maine State Library