Random Things Tours: Bright Stars of Black British History by J.T.Williams illustrated by Angela Vives

 

You know one of the many reasons I feel priviledged living in our current times? Hint: it has to do, obviously, with books! Books about people whose voices were never heard, women, minorities, people who always were part of their larger societies, even contributed to changing them, nevertheless they were never included in the official narratives of their countries. 

History is a difficult material to deal with - says a PhD in history - and it has the potential to both educate and distort. Depends on the aim it is written. Personally, I  believe that history well written and documented can do a tremendous work of representation for people, individuals and groups, underrepresented and/or absent from the official narratives. 

Bright Stars of Black British History by J.T. Williams, beautifully illustrated by Angela Vives is an outstanding example. Aimed at a young audience, it well written and informative enough to catch the attention of a more mature audience. A journey through times, it shows a what extent Black British History is written since centuries, through the contributions of actors, freedom fighters and artists, soldiers and educators. 

It is an important book both for personal use and as reading material in the classroom. It empowers both children and their families with vital information about the past and possible role models. Hopefully, there will be many many such books soon, I cannot wait to review. This is history in the making.

Rating: 5 stars

Disclaimer: Book offered as part of the book tour but the opinions are, as usual, my own