Johnson, Dinah. H is for Harlem. April Harrison, Illustrator. Little, Brown. 07/2022. [40]pp. Non-Fiction. GRADES Kindergarten – 4. HIGH ADDITIONAL. Trade $18.99. 978-0-316-32237-9.
In this alphabet, Dinah Johnson creates a guide to the important places and people of Harlem, featuring
both historical and modern examples, such as Zora Neale Hurston, and the Harlem Globetrotters. The collage illustrations celebrate the diversity of people in Harlem while also showing characteristic New York City architecture. April Harrison’s use of texture brings the illustrations to life, and is especially prevalent in her portraits of famous Harlem residents. As with many themed alphabet books, some letters are stronger than others. In particular, letters K (for “kinfolk”) and V (for “voices”) stand out as being less Harlem-specific and are not as strongly rooted in historical context. Letters A (for “Apollo Theater”) and I (for “Impact Farm”) teach the reader about Harlem through their specificity. While an introductory author’s note is included, this book lacks additional back matter, such as a timeline or further reading, which would make it stand out. H is for Harlem provides a simple introduction to Harlem through its factual text and lively illustrations.
Lillian Whithaus — Berkeley Public Library