Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights

Proudly progressive and unabashedly direct, this anthem is dedicated to “those who lost their lives at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.” Writing in stirring, crisp imperatives, Sanders (Pride) creates a to-do list for change: “Inquire. Invite. Inform. Imagine. Join others on the journey. Join others in the fight.” While some of the suggestions are timeless (“STRIKE,” written in big white letters on a black background), and a few illustrations reference specific movements (the 1965 Delano grape strike), much of the book feels timely. Placards that read “#RESIST” and “LOVE IS LOVE” are among the first images; in a later spread, a knitter creates a pink hat as she watches an African-American football player take a knee on television. It’s a tribute to the potent rhythm of Sanders’s text and exuberant cut-paper images by Schorr (Better Together) that the litany never grows wearying—in fact, the book relays useful, action-based suggestions as it moves along. Back matter details a short history of peaceful protests and defines related terms. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Ruben Pfeffer, Ruben Pfeffer Content. [em](Sept.) [/em]