There is nothing exactly like the frustrations a reader/me experiences when they/me are/is trying to write the review of a book that is freaking (only I am not saying freaking) awesome and they/me cannot put that into words since the book says it best.
The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander is a poetic look at the history of blacks in this country. Covering people from those we know such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to people we might know like poet Phillis Wheatley and musicians Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald Duke Ellington. Also included are athletes covering all eras from Jessie Owens to the Williams sisters and more. Alexander even talks about contemporary names such as Tamir Rice. Not to mention the fact he mentions the unknown men who fought and died in/for the Union and those who were brought here as slaves. There is passion and no holds bar telling from Alexander. The afterwards gives more details about the people seen and talked about. There is a lot given in very few words. There is a lot of punch per word for your money.
And Kadir Nelson continues the punches with some beyond romantic illustrations. They pop of the page. Deep rich colors representing the people in perfect details. Some of the images I would considering framing. Nelson’s signature style invokes just as much emotions as Alexanders text does.
This book kicks you upside the head, punches you in the gut and just pulverizes your feelings. Yet, this book is no better or worse than another book. It is just a lovely book about a subject that is presented in a manner that is accessible to all and makes you want to learn more. Most likely good for a school setting than one-on-one, but both work.