Windrush Child: The Tale of a Caribbean Child Who Faced a New Horizon by Johh Agard, Sophie Bass
Published by Candlewick Press on April 11, 2023
ISBN: 1536228532
Pages: 32
Goodreads

This beautifully written poem tells the tale of migration from the Caribbean to Britain in the mid twentieth century from a child’s point of view. The short stanzas are built on rhythm and rhyme. The lovely flow of the language is exemplified by the seabirds on the wind and the rolling sea. The gouache and pen illustrations support the verse and provide a beautiful and optimistic mood to the picture book. The rich, bright colors represent the hopeful new horizon that this child from the Caribbean faces. 

The child’s perspective of this poem supports the accessibility to the target audience of three to seven year old children. The colorful art will keep children engaged and support understanding of the story. 

Children and adults will both enjoy this universal story of migration and seeking a better life. A Note from the Author gives a brief explanation of the Windrush Generation. This book would be a great mentor text for a poetry unit or a great way to introduce a social studies unit on immigration for older students, but it is recommended for, and appropriate for ages 3 – 7 and anyone who enjoys poetry and historical fiction.

Reviewed by Lisa Roberts, South Portland Public Library, South Portland