Image: Astra Books/ Calkins Creek
I have to open this review with an apology. I received this finished copy over a year ago, and while I read it immediately, posted it as a 2023 favorite and wrote, "perfect in every way," I never blogged about it. I set it aside with the intention of posting, but my health issues got in the way. Last weekend, I was sorting stacks of books, came across it, and sat down to reread. I wondered if it would get any Youth Media Award love and put it on my spreadsheet for today's "Fact Friday" post. Happily, E. B. Lewis received a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor for his stunning illustrations this past Monday.
Writing in the present tense, using his signature spare and evocative language, Gary Golio describes a "day in the life" of photographer, Roy DeCarava. He worked a day job, but once work was over, "Roy's time is his own now." He loads his camera, he looks for subjects, and Harlem is brimming with them. Mr. Lewis' watercolor illustrations bring Harlem and its inhabitants to life. Each spread invites the reader to pause.
Back matter includes further information about Mr, DeCarava, a black and white photo of the photographer, a timeline, a photograph of his camera and a photo of a Harlem street scene. A bibliography is included along with a list of museums featuring his photos.
Everywhere Beauty is Harlem would be a terrific addition to my picture book biography unit and any school, classroom or public library.
