This Is Not A Small Voice: Poems by Black Poets

Compiled by Traci N. Todd, This is Not a Small Voice is a stunning anthology of poems which focuses on Black culture and experiences. Bursting with vibrant illustrations, it is beautifully presented and sure to appeal to a wide audience.

The anthology includes poems from familiar favourites like John Agard, Grace Nichols, Valerie Bloom, Joseph Coelho and Benjamin Zephaiah as well as introducing some, perhaps, less well-known poets, celebrating a wide range of voices and encouraging children (and adults!) to seek out these people and discover more about them and their work.

There are many poems here which are perfect for enjoying and sharing with a class. The collection opens with 'The Dream Keeper', a gorgeous poem by Langston Hughes, framed by a stunning illustration, sure to initiate thinking and discussion. 'Mama-Wata' by Grace Nichols and 'Mawu of the Waters' by Abena P A Busia both make wonderful starting points for investigating these goddesses and perhaps making comparisons with other myths or folklore from around the world. 'Silent Talking' is another gem which is thought-provoking and powerful and sure to generate discussion and debate.

The stunning illustrations are also guaranteed to capture interest and ignite imagination. Sitting between 'Say How You Feel' by Joseph Coelho and 'Common Things' by James Alpheus Butler Jr is the silhouette of a young girl full of colourful scenes of nature whilst 'Play Song' (Peter Clarke) and 'Salt! Vinegar! Mustard! Pepper!' (Jessie Fauset) are surrounded by children skilling, the ropes twisting round the poems and adding much to the feeling of exuberant joy flowing from the children. Each page deserves to be lingered over for the beauty of the artwork as well as the words.

The Afterword offers more detail about the poems, adding notes about culture, power and protest. This is Not a Small Voice would make a wonderful addition to any bookcase at home or at school.

128 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+

This Is Not a Small Voice is an anthology that perfectly works in a classroom as well as in homes. Compiled by the award-winning writer and editor Traci N. Todd, this stunning collection introduces children to a wide array of powerful voices in Black poetry. Each of the 100 poems is accompanied by vibrant, illustrations from Jade Orlando.

The book celebrates themes of identity, family, heritage, resilience, and joy, while also addressing topics such as food, hair, home, and the richness of the Black experience.

This Is Not a Small Voice is suitable for Lower Key Stage 2 (ages 7+). It serves as both a learning tool and is a celebration of Black writing.

128 pages / Reviewed by Emma Nelson, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+

This is Not a Small Voice is an inspiring anthology of poems by Black poets. This beautifully presented cloth bound book brings together a collection of poems specially chosen and collated by Traci N. Todd and Illustrated by Jade Orlando.

The poems in this collection cover a huge variety of themes such as hopes and dreams, music, culture, food and family, all written by Black Poets. This collection immerses you in rich, thought-provoking language and the illustrations capture so much of the essence of each poem.

When reading with the children, we loved poems such as 'Windrush Child' by John Agard - a gentle poetic introduction to an important part of history, and magical nods to culture and tradition in poems such as 'Mawu of the Waters' by Abena P.A Busia.

This collection has a lovely combination of favourite poets and new talent - which I am sure will be loved by many. This book truly deserves a spot on every library shelf!

128 pages / Reviewed by Sara Sumber, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+