I Dream for You a World: A Covenant for Our Children

Takes the reader on a lyrical journey leading to a child's understanding of the fundamental principles set forth in the New York Times bestselling book, THE COVENANT WITH BLACK AMERICA.Using poetry, laced with intergenerational concepts and brilliant collage, the book effortlessly pieces together a vibrant mind's view of the "better tomorrow" that we all dream for our children-a world that bears out community-driven solutions to the foundational CONVENANT agenda items. With a foreword written by none other than Tavis Smiley, and with back matter designed to enlighten children around each of the COVENANT concepts, I DREAM FOR YOU A WORLD will instantly become a core book, essential to complete the development of the soul and consciousness of children from all races and background.

Charisse Carney-Nunes (Washington, DC), mother of two, is the author of Nappy and Songs of a Sistermom. Inspired by Langston Hughes, this former Lincoln University poet laureate is a Harvard Law graduate and a co-founder of Sistermoms, Inc.Ann Marie Williams (Illustrator) is the winner of the 2006 Cherry Blossom Festival Art Competition and an award-winning fine artist residing in Reston, VA.

K-Gr 5— This picture book addresses 11 socioeconomic issues, including health, education, justice, wealth, and the environment that pertain to African-American children and their families. Illustrated with collages of smiling youngsters on abstract backgrounds, each spread has a brief poem that begins, "I dream for you a world." The text itself is slight, with significant information given in the foreword and in the densely packed appendix. While this is a useful introduction to "issues of importance" as identified by Tavis Smiley in Covenant with Black America (Third World, 2006), most children will need adult assistance to sort out the specifics of becoming Covenant Kids. This book raises awareness of many problems in society, and the specific action statements are empowering but not age specific. Children can learn their history and make a family tree, but suggestions such as supporting black colleges and buying computers are beyond their reach. This picture book may be best used by caring adults who want to share their dreams of a better world for all.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

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