Book details
I, Too, Sing America: Three Centuries of African American Poetry
Description
Powerful and diverse, this unique collection of African American poetry spans three centuries of writing in America. Poets bare their souls, speak their minds, trace their roots, and proclaim their dreams in the thirty-six poems compiled here. From lamentations to celebrations, the poems of Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Gwendolyn Brooks, among others, reveal the ironies of black America, juxtaposing themes of resistance and reconciliation, hope and despair. Eminent scholar Catherine Clinton further illuminates these poems through brief biographies of the poets and notes on the text. The result is an authoritative introduction to twenty-five of America's best poets. Prize-winning artist Stephen Alcorn lends his own artistic vision and passion to the collection, providing stunning visual interpretations of each poem. Together they create a stirring tribute to these great poets.
Age
10-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
128 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Enrichment: Reading 'I, Too, Sing America: Three Centuries of African American Poetry' provides a deep dive into the rich tapestry of African American cultural heritage, showcasing the powerful voices and artistic expressions that have shaped American literature and history.
- Historical Perspective: The collection spans three centuries, offering readers a chronological perspective on the evolution of African American poetry. This allows for a greater understanding of the social, political, and personal contexts that influenced these poets and their work.
- Diversity of Voices: The anthology features a wide range of poets, from early figures like Phillis Wheatley and Paul Laurence Dunbar to contemporary voices such as Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes. This diversity presents a multitude of experiences, themes, and styles, reflecting the complexity of the African American experience.
- Literary Appreciation: For poetry enthusiasts and literature students, 'I, Too, Sing America' is an invaluable resource that captures the stylistic innovations and literary contributions of African American poets. It serves as an important educational tool for understanding the canon of American poetry and the place of African American poets within it.