Reviews

Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson by Charles R. Smith Jr.

lstringer04's review

Go to review page

3.0

The storytelling just felt.... clumsy. Forced rhymes, disjointed plot. It feels like an important story to tell, and they miss some of the more meaningful moments. The author's note at the end was informative, and made me wish some of the material had made its way into the actual book.

id_rather_be_reading_'s review

Go to review page

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.5

In this children's biography of Jack Johnson, the world's first Black Heavyweight Champion we learn about his humble beginnings, having been born to formerly enslaved parents. We learn of his determination and perseverance to be the very best in his field and how he absolutely refused to be treated as anything less than the strong, proud man that he was. 

beecheralyson's review

Go to review page

3.0

I have mixed feelings on this one. Some strengths and some weaknesses. It's almost as if the book (esp. the text) can't make up it's mind in terms of how it wants to read (narrative, verse, etc.) as well as unsure of the real message.

nerfherder86's review

Go to review page

4.0

beautiful picture book biography of Jack Johnson, the first black heavyweight boxing champion. Catchy rhyming text and striking illustrations, and an age-appropriate depiction of racial inequalities of the time and why Jack became so popular.
More...