This lyrical tribute to the 44th U.S. President describes Barack Obama’s diverse childhood experiences and his various mentors and concludes with his successful presidential election. Struggling for self-acceptance, Obama’s search for racial identity led him to his father’s Kenyan homeland before establishing his family and expanding his political ambitions. Obama’s noteworthy quotations are highlighted on each double-page spread, adding a powerful personal element to this rhythmic narrative and revealing a talented orator and inspirational leader. Though his recreational drug use is briefly described, Obama is depicted more as an iconic saint uniting the masses than a multifaceted, flawed human being. “He mirrored the best of all of us, and the good in all of us. / More than a poet, he was a candle in the darkness.” Barrett’s oil paintings successfully create depth by varying dominant features against muted, shaded backdrops. Expressive faces convey a dramatic tension. Weatherford’s commemorative “American Baptism” provides a powerful finale to this undeniably passionate offering. (Picture book/biography. 6-9)
