The Horn Book Guide

SPORTS

Smith, Charles R., Jr.

Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson

40 pp. | Roaring Brook/Porter | June, 2010 | Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-473-8 $16.99

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Shane W. Evans. Smith tells the heavyweight champ's story in ballad form, which suits the larger-than-life feel of this dramatic tale. Johnson's quest to be champion was hampered by white title-holders; his persistence was eventually rewarded. The poetry is interspersed with quotes of the time. Evans uses oil paint and ink to depict the determined fighter, with newspapers, maps, and crowds in the backgrounds. Bib.

Reviewer: Susan Dove Lempke | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2010