The History of We: "A rich and beautifully told history of humanity" Joseph Coelho

Like its title, The History of We offers an alternative; an alternative to the usual rendering of what we might think is our history, especially if we've only read white-centred textbooks about human origins. Contrary to what we might have learned elsewhere, 'every person on Earth today can trace their ancestry back to a handful of travelling tribes from Africa'.

The author's point in making this statement in such a striking way, through stunning artwork and economical use of poetic language, is that we can (indeed should) all celebrate Black history. It is what unites us and defines who we are.

There's a truthfulness about Nikkolas Smith's storytelling, a vibrancy, a celebratory note that is unapologetic. His illustrations are textural, dynamic and multi-layered. I confess to not understanding a couple of them, but that is reason to ponder them more closely. Indeed, each page invites discussion or a response: are we willing to have our perspective changed and even perhaps our prejudices challenged? For that, presumably, is the purpose of this 'artivist' (in Smith's case) - to gain recognition for the foundational place of Black heritage for people everywhere and thus to promote social justice.

Many children's view of their own culture will be affirmed by this important book, which should take pride of place in school libraries and KS2 classroom book corners. Teachers may want to link its message to curriculum work on Evolution or to 'British values', or for inspiring children to create their own artwork celebrating shared culture and community.

40 pages / Reviewed by Jane Rew, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+