Indivisible: Poems for Social Justice

Gr 7 Up—A quote from Lincoln expressing faith in "the ultimate justice of the people" ushers in this collection of poems, while another from Whitman as to our "common indivisible destiny" marks its end. These are poems for, not just about, social justice, selected and arranged to inspire readers to action. In keeping with this bold mission, the selections are divided into five sections, intentionally orchestrated to help young people look at the American experience from different angles. In the first section, "liberty was misquoted," the poems call into question our oft-insular mindset and misguided interpretations of "other." By collection's end, however, the poems focus on "the next thing to happen," a space where teens may be moved to ponder what kinds of roles they will be bold enough to take up in this world. Yet whether readers take the intended journey or simply dip in and out, selecting a poem here or there, the impact is the same. Each poem (selections from both lesser- and well-known American poets are included) can stand strongly on its own. From Langston Hughes and Amiri Baraka to Joy Harjo and Toi Derricotte, the poets discuss perspective, misguided pity, stereotyping, patriarchy, and thousands of other sticky issues. This carefully selected collection is not only poetically breathtaking, but will undoubtedly prove useful time and again as we seek to provide resources for educating empathetic global citizens.—Jill Heritage Maza, Montclair Kimberley Academy, Montclair, NJ