Barracoon: Adapted for Young Readers by Ibram X. Kendi, Jazzmen Lee-Johnson, Zora Neale Hurston
Published by Amistad Books for Young Readers on 1/23/24
ISBN: 9780063098336
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

In this adaptation, Ibram X. Kendi retells the story of Cudjo Lewis, as originally written by African American anthropologist and storyteller, Zora Neale Hurston. Cudjo Lewis was one of the last people stolen from Africa and enslaved in the United States. Over several months he tells his story to Hurston, who shares her experience of gathering his story- from the meals they shared to the days that ended without goodbyes because he was so caught up in despair that he didn’t know she left. This powerful account exposes readers to the horrors of slavery, but in an age appropriate way. Lewis recounts the details of his life in Africa, his experience as part of the Middle Passage, and his life after slavery. Cudjo spoke in African American English and many passages throughout the book are written in a simplified form of Ebonics, which Kendi explains to the reader is not broken English. At times, it feels like Cudjo is speaking directly to the reader, teaching them about slavery and life during the Jim Crow era in a personal way. There are black and white illustrations throughout the book that capture the reality and emotion of the text. The combination of the text and illustrations creates a story that readers will take with them long after they finish the book. This book is recommended for libraries with middle/ high school audiences.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library