Black Girl You Are Atlas by Renée Watson was one of those books I had heard about, seen, but never really wanted to read. I mean, I like young adult literature, I like poetry and I like young adult poetry. However, I judged the book by the cover and theme. I assumed it would be some flowery “poor me” story. Instead, it is a truly strong and amazing short collection of poems that are relatable, informative and thoughtful. The language is lovely, but straight forward. There is nothing “lofty” but you get the point Watson is telling. They are semi-autobiographical that allow any girl to find a piece of themselves. The message is universal and the readers are too.
Now, if you are not a fan of the words (that’s sad, but I can appreciate that it does not always work out), I hope you can be amazed by the fantastically gorgeous illustrations, nah artwork, of Ekua Holmes. The rich, deep colors pop off the pages, yet are soft and smooth. Mixed media must have been used as occasionally a newspaper looking piece of paper will show the words leaking through. They have a classical and modern look to them. Silhouettes of people and places are detailed but also almost abstract. They are their own story while supporting the poetry Watson gives us. 
Perhaps my favorite poem is the titled one. The idea of Atlas: The man, the book and the concept of holding things up and/or together speaks on many different levels. However, I had several ones I enjoyed, at least a line or two. Come for the words that paint a picture and get the bonus imagery of Holmes to really catch your mind, eyes and attention. I am glad that when I was in the library one Saturday afternoon, I saw the book faced out and listened to the impulse I had that said “take me home.”
