And We Rise - by Erica Martin

Book Synopsis

*"A powerful, necessary book." SLJ, starred review

A powerful, impactful, eye-opening journey that explores through the Civil Rights Movement in 1950s-1960s America in spare and evocative verse, with historical photos interspersed throughout.

In stunning verse and vivid use of white space, Erica Martin's debut poetry collection walks readers through the Civil Rights Movement--from the well-documented events that shaped the nation's treatment of Black people, beginning with the "Separate but Equal" ruling--and introduces lesser-known figures and moments that were just as crucial to the Movement and our nation's centuries-long fight for justice and equality.

A poignant, powerful, all-too-timely collection that is both a vital history lesson and much-needed conversation starter in our modern world. Complete with historical photographs, author's note, chronology of events, research, and sources.

Praise for And We Rise

*"This powerful collection of poems serves not only as a history lesson but also a conversation starter about the civil rights movement and other events that have impacted the treatment of Black Americans throughout history." -- SLC (starred review)

"A strong, historically accurate collection that can enhance any social studies or language arts unit. More important, audiences will appreciate these poems that leap off the pages, bringing history, pain, dignity, and fierce determination to life." --Booklist

Review Quotes

Praise for And We Rise

*"This powerful collection of poems serves not only as a history lesson but also a conversation starter about the civil rights movement and other events that have impacted the treatment of Black Americans throughout history." -- SLC (starred review)

*"The impact of the poems in this powerful, necessary book is strengthened by the ­layout of the text and drives home the struggle for civil rights. A strong first purchase." --SLJ (starred review)

"A strong, historically accurate collection that can enhance any social studies or language arts unit. More important, audiences will appreciate these poems that leap off the pages, bringing history, pain, dignity, and fierce determination to life." --Booklist

About the Author

Erica Martin (ericamartinthewriterdotcom.wordpress.com) is a freelance editor, specializing in copyediting and developmental editing, and a poet. She has always been fascinated by English, writing, and US History. And We Rise is her first book. She lives with her family in Tennessee. Follow Erica on Twitter @ericaeditor or on Instagram @erica.martin.writes.