Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer

“The first time James Baldwin read a book, the words clung to him like glitter.” Harris and James home in on the emotional core of the author’s upbringing in this moving work about Baldwin (1924–1987). Beginning pages depict his early life—his doting mother, the abundant siblings under his care, his love of reading, and his preacher stepfather, who displayed fury “toward Jimmy’s books and all the things he saw burning in the world.” Sensate lines illuminate Baldwin’s childhood experience while underscoring what drives him (“In the library, Jimmy could hear the books singing to him, shouting ‘Hallelujah!’ as joyfully as the women banging tambourines at his stepfather’s church”). After experiencing a police assault, Baldwin realizes the healing power of words—and begins writing “to heal his heart.” Thickly stroked oil-on-board illustrations have a dreamlike quality as they emphasize the love of words as a cornerstone of Baldwin’s life. Back matter, which includes biographical information and creators’ notes, discusses Baldwin’s queer identity. Ages 4–8. (Jan.)