When We Say Black Lives Matter by Maxine Beneba Clarke

Book Review

Much of Maxine Beneba Clarke’s writing is poetic, and often throws unforgettable diamond-honed punches.

I have read and valued a number of her books, beginning with her short fiction Foreign Soil, in which the first story refers to a bike that evokes searing memories as well as a mention of patchwork bikes. Her awarded picture book The Patchwork Bike (illustrated by Van T Rudd) is sensory and exuberant. Her memoir The Hate Race enlightened my understanding of the impact of everyday racism on people trying to live safe, happy lives in Australia. Maxine Beneba Clarke is an Australian writer of Afro-Caribbean descent.

Maxine has both written and illustrated her new picture book, When We Say Black Lives Matter (Lothian Children’s Books). This is another dynamic work where the author’s wise, impassioned presence is perceptible.

The voice is musical, soulful, hurting, urgent and loving. It first addresses the child…