This inspiring picture book is a beautiful and colorful illustrated adaptation of one of poet Langston Hughes' most celebrated poems "Dream Variation." In this poem, set in the 1950s, our protagonist notices the segregation and inequality he experiences, yet he dreams that this will no longer be the case. He dreams of a better life where he can "fling his arms wide in the face of the sun." The colorful yet soft illustrations by Daniel Miyares beautifully interpret the words of Langston Hughes. I had goosebumps when I read this book. This is a great book for children age four to eight years old, to learn about the very real problems in America's past regarding segregation and racism, and how the boy in the story dreams of a better life full of hope, freedom and acceptance. ( )

Except fo dance, whirl, whirl, I'd have given it 5 ( )

Except fo dance, whirl, whirl, I'd have given it 5 ( )

Set in a segregated town in 1950s America, one child’s dream of a better, more inclusive world is shared through vibrant watercolors and one of Langston Hughes’s most celebrated poems, “Dream Variation.” Includes Illustrator’s Note.

I loved this book. It teaches kids the history from when America was segregated. It also shows a unique perspective from another young boy around the same age as the main character. ( )