Sometimes People March

Effectively argues that “People are more powerful together.”

In her author-illustrator debut, Allen presents an accessible introduction to political protest: "Marching is something people do together when they want to resist injustice." Spare prose informs on the necessity of rallying and communal allyship, with graceful allusions to significant historical events from 1776 to the present. Allen describes multiple modes of engagement, saliently reminding readers that they can make a difference not only through in-person gatherings but also through making art and "by/ standing up/ or sitting down/ or taking a knee." Inclusive ink and watercolor drawings elegantly attend the subject matter, portraying in gentle washes people of various skin tones, abilities, religions, sexual orientations, and more who are "stronger together." An excellent supplement for enlightening young readers about activism and encouraging its praxis. Back matter includes a guide to the movements, marches, and key figures included visually throughout, with concise descriptions of each. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)

K-Gr 4--Debut author-illustrator Allen illuminates the motivations for protest marches. Contemporary issues are highlighted (systemic racism and police brutality, climate change, Black Lives Matter, the March for Our Lives) as well as historical protests (the women's suffrage movement, the Delano grape boycott). The watercolor drawings depict a diverse group of people, not only in terms of racial, ethnic, and visible religious diversity but also in sexual orientation and ability. One double-page spread highlights how people resist, including call-and-response chants, an Ida B. Wells quote rising out of a typewriter, Pete Seeger sailing on the sloop Clearwater, and young artists painting a mural. Allen shows that advocacy does not have an age limit. Children are portrayed as activists, protesting together or with their families. The text notes, "Sometimes from feelings of fear or anger or injustice comes the hope for change." The nuanced and varied facial expressions on every page make for a powerful focus for social and emotional learning lessons. A final double-page spread features a city street filled with protesters, using light and colors that project hope and power. A "Movements, Marches & Key Figures in the Art" section identifies the individuals and movements pictured throughout the book, which includes page numbers. VERDICT A must-have for any collection looking for age-appropriate books to answer questions about current events and social justice issues.--Courtney Lewis, St. Catherine's Sch., Richmond, VA