Ashley Bryan, Author & Illustrator
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bryan, Ashley. 2003. BEAUTIFUL BLACKBIRD. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9780689847318.
2. PLOT SUMMARY
BEAUTIFUL BLACKBOARD is the beautiful retelling of a Zambian folktale about a group of colorful birds who admire the beauty of Blackbird. The other birds are a bright shade of reds, yellows, greens, blues, and purples, and they believe that Blackbird is the most beautiful because of his beautiful, deep black color. In their awe, they ask Blackbird to share some of his black coloring with them, and he then paints markings on their feathers. As he does so, he reminds them that their true beauty comes from within, not from the outside. They celebrate the beauty that black adds to their outward appearance.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This tale works well as a folktale because of its use of repetition, rhythm, animal character, and direct lesson. It is the tale of why birds may have many black markings, but it also carries the significance of beauty, identity, and self-worth. It creates a celebration of the Blackbird and its black color as something beautiful, valuable, and desirable. The book draws a powerful conversation on the importance of embracing one’s identity, culture, and values, and recognizing the many forms of beauty.
The illustrations of the book play a significant role as the bright colors and dark black are essential to the storyline. Throughout the book, the birds look lively and joyful, and the transition of when they gain their black color is evident. It is a deep contrast that adds pattern and beauty to the other birds.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal – “This unusual and little-known pourquoi tale may supplement larger collections and serves as a thoughtful and entertaining addition to units on self-esteem.”
Publishers Weekly – “Bryan’s lilting and magical language is infectious.”
5. CONNECTIONS
- Students can read this book in a classroom setting and then participate in a collage bird-making art world in which they can then add their own black markings. They can then share and tell what makes their bird unique.
- Related Books:
Bryan, Ashley. LET IT SHINE: THREE FAVORITE SPIRITUALS. ISBN 9780689847325.
Bryan, Ashley. THE DANCING GRANNY. ISBN 9780689711589.
Morales, Yuyi. JUST A MINUTE: A TRICKSTER TALE AND COUNTING BOOK. ISBN 9780811837583.
The Literary Compass 