I am my ancestors' wildest dreams

PreS-Gr 3--Moore's empowering debut celebrates a young Black boy's unbridled pride and joy for who he is: "I AM FLY. From my crown down to the kicks on my feet … I AM my ancestors' wildest dreams." Those ancestors include 10 heroes, from Chadwick Boseman to Charles Drew, from John Lewis to Thurgood Marshall. Already uplifting in print, the audio is an even greater exhilarating enhancement. Spirited, youthfully persuasive Bullock performs a confident narration over a dynamic soundtrack by Matthew Head. The same narration repeats, with a techo-rattle to cue page turns. Moore then reads her bolstering author's note ("you, my friend, can change the world"), and adds "A Little About These Ancestors" she's chosen. The final track concludes with artist Paul voicing his "imagination is the seed of greatness"--encouragement; his heroes are 11--MLK is visible only in print. VERDICT All libraries should invest in this impeccable collaboration.

A Black child finds inspiration in the legacies of 10 African American men. Whether playing with friends, shooting hoops on the court, or doing good deeds, our young narrator knows "I AM my ancestors' wildest dreams." Naming rappers, judges, athletes, writers, actors, and activists, the child ponders how to follow their worthy examples, such as "[using] my voice to touch hearts" like Biggie and Tupac or starting "a bit of good trouble" just as John Lewis did. Dr. Charles Drew, Chadwick Boseman, Muhammad Ali, and other ancestors are pictured alongside the child, who mimics their actions and wears similar clothing. These scenes are interspersed with those depicting the child in a welcoming, diverse community. The energetic text reads like a smooth stream of affirmations honoring the self and cultural pride. The cartoonlike illustrations use bright colors, cheerful faces, and confident poses to emphasize the power of the child's positive self-image, fortified by a strong relationship with past and contemporary heroes. With the resonance of the titular saying and additional affirming phrases in the child's assured voice, this book will lend confidence to Black children and remind all readers of the dignity and contributions of African American people. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A joyful tribute to share with young children. (author's note, further information, illustrator's note) (Picture book. 3-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.