Beautiful Blackbird

Bibliography

Bryan, Ashley. 2003. Beautiful Blackbird. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0-689-84731-9.

Summary

Long ago, beautiful birds of all colors of Africa gathered for a festival. Of all the birds, Blackbird was the only bird with any black color. At the festival, the other birds unanimously agree that Blackbird is the most beautiful of them all and they each want black represented on them. Blackbird states, "Color on the outside is not what's on the inside." But Blackbird shares his color of black with all the other birds in different designs. And now, all of the birds have a piece of Blackbird's beauty.

Critical Analysis

This story was adopted from the Ila-speaking people of Zambia's tale where Bryan uses cut-paper artwork to tell the story of a unique bird. When Ringdove asks Blackbird for some of his beautiful black color, Blackbird tries to explain the importance of appreciating one's individuality and that beauty comes from within. Still, Ringdove and the other birds are persistent to wanting to have some black color on them. The birds all rejoice in their new looks that Blackbird has shared with them. The language and storyline is simple and easy to read.

The beautiful cut-paper artwork portray the vivid colors of each bird and the beauty that each bird possesses. Culture is represented in the birds and how each is different and each should be valued for their own uniqueness. This can also be demonstrated with individuals and finding beauty and appreciation for what's inside instead of looking at the exterior only.


Review Excerpts

Coretta Scott King Award 2004
Bluegrass Award Nominee 2005

Booklist- "The overlapping collage images fill the pages with energy as the songlike responses of the birds tap out a rhythm punctuated with 'uh-huhs.'"

School Library Journal- "The story line is simple and the rhythmic chants of the flock frequently interspersed throughout the text add drama and a rapper's cadence. The cut-paper silhouettes are colorful but static, effectuating a stylized formality."

Kirkus Reviews- "The rolling language and appealing illustrations make this a must."
Connections

• Create activities in which students discover the uniqueness and beauty within their own cultures.
• Find books catering to students' various cultures and share during literacy circles.