The New Brownies' Book by Charly Palmer, Karida L. Brown

The New Brownies' Book (Brownies)

by Charly Palmer and Karida L. Brown

Inspired by the groundbreaking work of W. E. B. Du Bois, this beautiful collection brings together an amazing roster of Black creative voices to honor, celebrate, and foster Black excellence. The New Brownies' Book reimagines the very first publication created for African American children in 1920 as a must-have anthology for a new generation. Expanding on the mission of the original periodical to inspire the hearts and minds of Black children across the country, esteemed scholar Karida Brown and award-winning artist Charly Palmer have gathered the work of more than 60 contemporary Black artists and writers. The result is a book bursting with essays, poems, photographs, paintings, and short stories reflecting on the joy and depth of the Black experience - an immersive treasure trove that reminds readers of all ages that Black is brilliant, beautiful, and bold.

Reviewed by annieb123 on

5 of 5 stars

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Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The New Brownies' Book is a beautifully photographed and curated collection of words and pictures based on W.E.B. Du Bois' original Brownies' Book (magazine published in 1920-21), and full of art and stories for and about black kids and their experiences. Released 10th Oct 2023 by Chronicle Books, it's 208 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is a beautifully edited anthology and a worthwhile read. The editors, Dr. Karida L. Brown, and fine artist Charly Palmer, have done a thorough job of curating a collection that is positive, thought provoking, uplifting, and visually appealing. The various writers and visual artists whose works make up the contributions are a mixed lot, but all contribute something tangible to the book as a whole. Readers will definitely be challenged, but also will be moved. This is a collection which is entirely age-appropriate, and it will be a good selection for public or school library acquisition, but will also affect adults in a different way, with a deeper understanding. 

Five stars. Definitely worthwhile. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

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Reading updates

  • 22 October, 2023: Started reading
  • 22 October, 2023: Finished reading
  • 22 October, 2023: Reviewed