WE ARE AMERICA by Walter Dean Myers (genre 3 book 1)

Who is America? We Are America: A Tribute From the Heart by Walter Dean Myers and illustrated by his son, Christopher Myers is a thought provoking text. With the iconic Statue of Liberty on the cover, the award winning pair weave poetry and art to create a book not about America's icons but about the people who create her. Inspired by 9/11 and quotations from many historical documents, both Myers wanted to create a book together exuding patriotism.

Each page includes Walter Dean Myers' free-verse poetry on the ideals, events, and people that have impacted American history. "We were willing to die to forge our dream..." expresses the emotion that many Americans have committed to in the ongoing fight for their ideals. Many of these verses can be open to interpretation and allow for discussion of historical topics such as the protestation of taxes by Britain or the Civil War. Christopher Myers' painterly art creates a montage of images of famous and ordinary Americans. The striking brush strokes evoke emotion and thought with images of unknown protesters, known figures such as Mark Twain, and historical events like the Battle of Wounded Knee. Further provocation is provided by the addition of quotations on each page from a variety of historical persons or documents. These include excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, past presidents, the Treaty of Paris and many others. At the back of the book the quotes are given context to help further discussion. Art notes are also included to help shed light on the source of inspiration for illustrations.

On the surface the book is a patriotic read of history. Older readers will find that with more study and discussion the depth to the story of America is one worth exploring. All who open the pages will be touched and moved on their own level.

Review Excerpts:

"Widely inclusive and full of passion and pride..." -Booklist

"Stunning." -Kirkus

"A thought-provoking and largely accomplished work for students of American history." -School Library Journal

Connections:

*Special section discussing the origin of each quote and the theme behind each illustration can lead to multiple discussions regarding each page.

*This book can be a starting point for discussions about poetry, art, history or a culmination of all three.

Bibliography:

Myers, Walter Dean. 2011. We Are America: A Tribute From the Heart. Ill. by Christopher Myers. New York: Collins. ISBN: 9780060523091