YOUR CROWN SHINES

Encouragement to reach for the stars, just as Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson did.

Opening with a close-up of brown-skinned, sock-clad legs, this tribute to Jackson—the first African American woman appointed to the Supreme Court—pairs verse rife with references to the justice’s life and storied career (supportive parents, a guidance counselor who warns that “YOUR SIGHTS ARE SET TOO HIGH”) with images of a pigtailed Black girl who “speaks her dreams into existence.” Both Jackson and the pictured youngster are part of a long line of women who persisted despite others’ doubts, among them Harriet Tubman and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Suffused with glowing purples and golds, Coulter’s ethereal, glittery images feature frequent stars and crowns amid images of Black women and girls proudly supporting one another. Scanned excerpts from legal documents—such as Jackson’s Supreme Court confirmation speech and opinions—comprise many of the backgrounds, underscoring her deep passion for the law. Kids may have questions: Is the girl at the center of the book a young Ketanji? Or is she a child inspired by her worthy example? They also likely won’t recognize all the names of the women adorning the spines of the oversize books that the girl leans against (Oprah, Viola, Angela). Adults will want to offer some context, but the uplifting message comes through loud and clear: “Find a smile in the darkest tales. / Dust off that gold. / Adjust your crown. / We see you.”

Affirming and warm.