A Place Inside of Me: A Poem to Heal the Heart

In this poem, a Black child navigates his changing emotions over the course of a year. Initially filled with joy during summertime activities like skateboarding and basketball, his emotions take a dark turn when his community is impacted by a police shooting. As the seasons change from fall to winter and then spring, his feelings evolve from fear to anger, and ultimately to pride and peace. Illustrator Noa Denmon, in her debut, captures the complex emotional journey of the child following the police shooting, depicting grief, protests, healing, and community through expressive colors. This book is a Caldecott Honor recipient.