I, Too, Sing America: Three Centuries of African American Poetry
What’s inside...
This unique collection of African American poetry spans three centuries of writing in America, featuring thirty-six poems from poets such as Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Gwendolyn Brooks. The poems explore themes of resistance, reconciliation, hope, and despair, reflecting the ironies of black America. Eminent scholar Catherine Clinton provides brief biographies and notes on the text, offering an authoritative introduction to twenty-five of America's best poets. Prize-winning artist Stephen Alcorn provides visual interpretations of each poem, enhancing the collection and creating a stirring tribute to these great poets.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the poems make you feel about African American history and culture?
Which poem stood out to you the most and why?
What do you think the poets are trying to communicate through their words?
How do the themes in these poems relate to our world today?
Can you imagine what the poets were feeling when they wrote these poems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, share your own reflections on a poem to model thoughtful engagement.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions freely, affirming that there are no right or wrong answers.
Connect the poems to current events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Ask your child to pick their favorite poem and explain what they liked about it, fostering a deeper personal connection to the material.
Suggest rereading certain poems together, focusing on rhythm and expression to enhance understanding and appreciation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The poems illustrate the endurance and strength of African Americans throughout history, reflecting their struggles and triumphs.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting despite challenges, and the value of strength in overcoming obstacles in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: The collection showcases works from various African American poets, offering insights into diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to respect and value diverse cultures and histories, enhancing social inclusivity and understanding in their day-to-day interactions.
Example Lesson: The power of voice and expression
Explanation: Poets use their unique voices to convey deep emotions and messages, demonstrating the significance of self-expression.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to value their own voices and express themselves creatively and confidently, whether in writing or other forms of communication.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: The anthology spans three centuries of poetry, providing a historical context that helps children understand the past and its impact on the present.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this awareness by being more informed and thoughtful about the history and its ongoing implications in society.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The poems engage with themes of injustice, love, and community, allowing readers to empathize with the experiences of others.
Real-World Application: This fosters empathy in children, prompting them to be compassionate and supportive in their interactions with others, regardless of background or experience.