The Mighty Macy

Gr 2-5–Alexander makes his chapter book debut with this sweet tale of a young Black girl speaking up for her community. Third grader Macy has so much music in her life, from her poet father’s beloved daily recitations to her younger brother’s annoying rap habit, and even her own (humorously fraught) violin practice sessions. She also loves to tune out the world and read. When she finds out the school library’s hours have been reduced due to budget cuts, Macy and her fellow bookish friend Blue decide to stage a protest at the upcoming board meeting. Even though Macy has so much to say, it will take a little bit of inspiration and a lot of support from friends and family to help her find that perfect poem deep inside. Tender and powerful, this unique chapter book in verse is a delight. Young readers will learn about poetic form and music terminology while they follow Macy through her life with people who love and encourage her. Thomas’s monochrome illustrations make the narrative come alive, deftly capturing character mood and tone. The text swoops and swirls, inflates and italicizes to express Macy’s relatable worry over nailing her minuet solo or that her father won’t be able to keep a promise. The musicality of this novel would make it perfect for small-group read-alouds.