Faith Ringgold

Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold is an inspiring story about a young African American girl, Cassie Louise Lightfoot, who dreams of being able to fly above her family’s rooftop and away from the struggles of life in Harlem. The story is beautifully illustrated with quilt-like paintings, making it an engaging and visually stunning read. With its themes of freedom and overcoming obstacles, Tar Beach is sure to captivate readers of all ages.

The vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, allowing readers to picture themselves on the rooftop with Cassie as she imagines her own version of the American Dream. The book also provides an interesting look into African American history and culture, featuring brief descriptions of real-life events such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Great Migration. Additionally, Tar Beach has been praised for its empowering message about resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Overall, Tar Beach is an uplifting and thought-provoking read that will provide readers with a unique perspective on African American history and culture. It’s no wonder that this children’s book has become a classic since its publication almost thirty years ago! In the next part of our review, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the features that make Tar Beach stand out among other books in its genre.