Cline-Ransome, Lesa. Fighting with Love: The Legacy of John Lewis. James E. Ransome, Illus. Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman, 01/2024. [48]pp. Biography. Trade $18.99. 978-1-5344-9662-0. GRADES Preschool–3. OUTSTANDING.
Guided by John Lewis’ own words to “hold only love, only peace in your heart,” this poignant biography conveys the essence of John Lewis’ life by beginning and ending with love, from a childhood surrounded by the love of a large family in segregated Troy, Alabama to prayer surrounded by the love of a movement before the march on Selma. The composition of both the story and illustrations powerfully demonstrate that from a lifetime of witnessing and absorbing injustices, John Lewis found his own path to give only love in return. Inspired dynamic compositions incorporate color, pattern, drawing, and collage leading their own lyrical story. Afterword includes extensive timeline, cited quotations, and an author’s note detailing personal connection to John Lewis. This biography is a notable achievement even for this highly acclaimed husband-and-wife team, and the most distinguished about John Lewis to date. Sure to engage and inspire young readers as they find their own paths through challenging times.
Alexandre Petrakis—San Francisco Public Library