DeShawn Days

Review
By School Library Journal

Told in verse and segmented into descriptive passages each illustrated on double-page spreads, Medina’s story introduces readers to the world of an African American boy who lives in the projects. Happy, sad, or scary, the experiences DeShawn shares are vivid, thought-provoking, and insightful. . . . Though many of the verses deal with the harsh reality of living in a turbulent environment, the optimism of this child is evident and convincing. Christie’s acrylic paintings are bold, vibrant, and child-like, adding to the moods created by Medina’s poetry. A wonderful book to read aloud and a possible springboard for teachers to use in creative-writing and art classes.