Reviews

Brown Sugar Babe by Charlotte Watson Sherman, Akem Akem

afro8921's review against another edition

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3.0

I enjoyed the illustrations the most in this picture book. The deep browns and golden tans are lovely. The story is basically an inoculation against the standard of beauty that doesn't make space for the beauty in black and brown children. It's a good book that can be used to start talking about true beauty with school aged children.

sab_rose's review against another edition

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4.0

3.5

Very lyrical.

A pleasant read with a very powerful message.

maweets's review against another edition

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4.0

Stunning illustrations and very thoughtful text. The story was lyrical and empowering about ones own Blackness and loving yourself.

theybedax's review against another edition

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4.0

The art in this is gloriously beautiful! The message is wonderful and well executed. I was deeply saddened but not surprised by the authors note in the end about children's reactions to identical dolls except for race.

emeelee's review against another edition

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4.0

Felt a smidge too long, but very lyrical with gorgeous artwork!

sunflowerjess's review against another edition

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inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Gorgeously illustrated, this reflective and dynamic books celebrates all things brown and beautiful. Brown always has been one of my favorite colors - it is the color of earth, of trees, of coffee, all some of my favorite things. This lovely book is so joyful and teaches young brown children that their skin color is something to cherish. 

afro75's review against another edition

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3.0

I enjoyed the illustrations the most in this picture book. The deep browns and golden tans are lovely. The story is basically an inoculation against the standard of beauty that doesn't make space for the beauty in black and brown children. It's a good book that can be used to start talking about true beauty with school aged children.

sylviamariereads's review against another edition

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5.0

Poetic, joyful, and beautiful.

empress_extra's review against another edition

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4.0

Beautiful poem explaining the beauty of all things brown! And the artwork is exquisite too!!

bethmitcham's review

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3.0

Great concept but I found the poem hard to read aloud. The pictures were lovely but the words didn’t sing for me. It was fine.