This last post for 2015 looks back 273 years to the birth of Francis Barber and forward to the hope that children always bring.
 |
| Francis Barber by Joshua Reynolds |
The 16 July, 2015 issue of the London Review of Books contained a
book review of a biography of Francis Barber. Barber (1742-1801) was born into slavery in Jamaica and ended his life in London, a servant and an heir to
Samuel Johnson, the famed man of letters. Barber was granted his freedom and a legacy in 1755 by Colonel Richard Bathurst, who brought him to England, before he went into service to Johnson at age ten. Dr. Johnson saw to his education, referred to him with warmth and tenderness. During his tenure in the Johnson household, Barber was remarked upon by members of Johnson's illustrious social circle.
The importance of books, especially ones focusing on positive role models for children, has long been championed by educators, librarians, and social equity activists.
Walter Dean Meyers (1937-2014) was a prolific African American author who was one of the first people to write books featuring Black children and young adults, especially Black boys, living ordinary lives.
 |
| Walter Dean Meyers |
He was the recipient of numerous awards, including ones from the American Library Association and the Coretta Scott King Award for African American Authors. He was the National Ambassador for Children's Literature 2012 and 2013.
In February of 2015, the website Buzzfeed put out a list of
26 children's books which celebrate the accomplishments of Blacks in a variety of occupations. There are many resources available to parents and educators from both
libraries and
special interest sites. A new year's resolution to bring a positive outlook into the lives of Black children is surely a good thing.
