Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre. Carole Boston Weatherford. Illustrated by Floyd Cooper. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
First sentence: Once upon a time near Tulsa, Oklahoma, prospectors struck it rich in the oil fields. The wealth created jobs, raised buildings, and attracted newcomers from far and wide, seeking fortune and a fresh start.
There are no words. Okay, there are words, but not adequate words that do justice to the experience of reading this one. (If that makes sense.) This is without a doubt an emotional read that takes the readers on a journey.
I do think it is for mid-to-upper elementary school. I wouldn't necessarily choose it for the preschool crowd. But what a story--marvelous text, incredible illustrations. Together text and illustrations will break your heart. The first half is filled with so much hope and the possibilities while not endless perhaps seem tangible, within reach. The rest is horrifying. But just because something is horrifying doesn't mean you can ignore it or wish it away.
A hard read, to be sure, but worth it.
© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers
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