NPR's Book of the Day Two new children's books view the natural world as a site of personal growth
Apr 18, 2025
Kiese Laymon, a celebrated writer and MacArthur genius, discusses his latest children's book, *City Summer, Country Summer*, highlighting the transformative power of summer experiences for Black boys. He shares his passion for portraying emotional tenderness and growth. Sascha Alper introduces her debut book, *The Littlest Drop*, inspired by Quechua folklore and illustrated by Brian Pinkney, who carries on his late father's legacy. Together, they explore themes of resilience, climate awareness, and the importance of fostering a safe environment for children through literature.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Black Boy Softness Explored
- The book "City Summer, Country Summer" explores the concept of black boy softness through nature and play.
- It contrasts city black boys' perspective of country as foreign and vice versa, emphasizing shared emotional connections.
Allow Children to Be Lost
- Encourage children to be lost as a form of experimentation and growth.
- Being in new places and missing home helps children explore emotional depth and self-discovery.
Difference Between Safety and Safeness
- Safety and safeness are different; safeness is a psychological and emotional sense felt especially in familial spaces.
- Laymon highlights the importance of creating this safeness for black children despite an often unsafe world.