Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer

Gr 2-5–In descriptive and poetic language, this book reveals how reading and writing were powerful motivators for young James Baldwin. Growing up in Harlem, he was drawn to the language he heard around him and to the books he found in the library. As he grew up, the impact of reading and writing on his life continued to grow, leading him to a career as a celebrated writer. The illustrations help bring the story to life, showing Baldwin’s early years in Harlem and the people and places that influenced his decision to become a writer. These depict children playing on the streets, the police who threatened Baldwin, and his stepfather who discouraged his writing ambitions and his mother who encouraged them. An abundance of words sprinkled around the illustrations show what Baldwin heard and what he saw. When Baldwin left Harlem and moved to France, his writing career emerged and blossomed.