A Nation's Hope: The Story of Boxing Legend Joe Louis

Gr 2–4—Hitler was rising in Europe. The United States, just recovering from the Great Depression, was soon to enter World War II, and segregation was the norm. Into that mix came African American boxer Joe Louis. Born in poverty, he found his purpose in the boxing ring. Having lost his first fight to German Max Schmeling, Louis had much to prove in his second bout, and the nation was behind him. Context is everything, and author Matt de La Peña uses a few carefully chosen words, arranged lyrically, to place listeners in another era. In his book (Dial, 2011), de La Peña tells the story in gentle jabs and weaves. In this DVD, JD Jackson's rich voice brings that story to life, while the addition of sound effects adds to its realism. Viewers can enjoy Kadir Nelson's luminous illustrations as they cheer with the crowd at Louis's victory. This inspiring, beautifully done production merits a place in any collection.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA