Hold Them Close: A Love Letter to Black Children by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Patrick Dougher
Published by HarperCollins US on February 1, 2023
ISBN: 0063036177
Pages: 48
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

This is a lyrical message to Black children to hold onto the gifts of loving, joyful moments during (and despite) difficult times. The prose lays the groundwork for the remarkably powerful and dynamic illustrations: digital collages of black and white photographs of a Black family (grandmother, father, two children) who love and laugh together juxtaposed with digital images that are eye-opening, sometimes celebratory and occasionally heartbreaking. The story and illustrations do not shy away from ugly realities of racial violence but it also honors Black history and history makers.

The book could make an excellent jumping-off point with older students able to discuss the fullness of Black history in America. Back matter and front matter make this even more effective. The author’s note in the front matter addresses how to talk to Black children about Black joy, history, and strength in the face of anti-Black violence. I would recommend familiarizing oneself with the information in the front and back matter before reading this aloud to a group. My first inclination was to recommend this *only* to older readers, because of the few images of anti-Black violence. However, this is the reality and history my youngest Black students live with every day, and they will love the images and story of a Black family thriving and loving each other.

Reviewed by Deanna Contrino, Young School Library, Saco