not in ILL

A beautifully illustrated, poetic celebration of childhood memories of growing up in North Preston, Nova Scotia, a community significant in African-Canadian history. ( )

Wonderful, uplifting, and a celebration of not only the community of North Preston, Nova Scotia, but of life, childhood and memories! Shauntay Grant's poetical text takes us back into her childhood of summer joys, Sunday services, family gatherings, while Susan Tooke's brilliantly bold illustrations makes the reader feel as though he/she is actually part of the narrative (sharing the author's memories, climbing trees, picking blueberries and listening to Nana's stories of how Maroons, Loyalists and refugees made their way to freedom in Nova Scotia). By themselves, I would consider the illustrations almost a bit too brilliant, even somewhat garish, but they are the perfect complement to the author's expressive language and "word-painting."

The information concerning the history of North Preston, Nova Scotia and its settlement by African American Loyalists, Maroons and refugees is an added bonus, not only for the historical data it presents, but also because it touches on the fact that many of the settlers (even well into the 20th century) faced racism and marginalisation (a topic not really covered by and in the text proper). Highly recommended for anyone (both children and adults) interested in picture books about the African Canadian experience, but really, this delightful gem of a picture book is recommended for anyone who enjoys lovingly poetic homages to childhood, community and family. ( )