Powerful Words: More Than 200 Years Of Extraordinary Writings By ....

by Wade Hudson, Sean Qualls (Illustrations)

Words stir and motivate, whether spoken, written, or sung. Dynamic, timely, crucial, and eloquent words from more than 30 important African-American personalities are represented here.

This is a moving collection of excerpted writings (letters, speeches, poetry, novels, songs, and more) by famous African-Americans with thoughtful commentary on the authors, as well as the impact the writings have had on society.

Benjamin Banneker. Dred Scott. Ida B. Wells Barnett. Marcus Garvey. Langston Hughes. Rosa Parks. Malcolm X. Toni Morrison. Lauryn Hill. These and many more are the people who have helped shape African-American culture throughout history.

Genres: History, Cultural

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Wade Hudson is the author of nearly 30 books for children and Young adults. He and his wife Cheryl are the founders of Just Us Books, Inc., a leading publisher of multicultural books for children.

Reviews

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Frustrated by missed potential with this book.

I love the illustrations, and the way that their style is incorporated into the larger fonts.

There are really inspiring passages chosen, with a broad mix of classics and surprises.

The formatting keeps holding it back. There is too much separation of key information supporting the passages, meaning continuously having to go back and forth between pages.

In addition, the section introductions should stand on their own, but are crammed in with the introduction of the first person featured in each section. I suspect the issue is that historically there are names that should be mentioned but that don't have their own quoted passages. Instead, it ends up feeling like it is abbreviating some pretty important information.

I know this could be better, and it is important enough to be worth improving.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This brilliant book is a reminder of the need for all people to have a life of equality and dignity. The profound words shared confirm the human experience involves love of family, a desire to make a difference and the legacy we leave behind, regardless of the color of our skin, our religious beliefs, or sexual orientation.

I love this book and feel families should sit down and share it together.

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is for young adults to get a quick summary of some amazing African American writers. Most of these names I knew, some not. It's well worth "grown up" time! I learned alot.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really important read. So many years of African Americans expertise and their own powerful words.

[Intia · Rating 5 out of 5]

THAT THIS BOOK IS ABOUT BLACK HISTORY

[Deijon Williams]

Powerful Words is a informational book about the different African American Trail blazers throughout history. Every couple of pages describes the life of each icon. This book is great for any age to learn about African American history.