For You, I Will

Positioned as a book inspired by Duncan’s contribution to The Undefeated’s section “Love Letters to Black Women,” this title renders fervent promises in lines that evoke a parent’s commitment to preparation for a daughter’s future. Beginning with the parent holding a baby close (“I will wrap my arms around you so you will know comfort”), pages show the child moving from infancy to crawling, standing, and running (“I will stand steady while you find your footing”). In addition to listening to the child’s dreams, the parent also warns of difficulties to come in a world that “would try to quiet you and attempt to dim your flame,” and vows that “I will help you find your voice to be bold and unafraid.” In addition to images of flowers and greenery, Freeman’s joyous digital illustrations render images of Black women luminaries (named in back matter) in various scenes’ backgrounds—Bessie Coleman, for example, stands in the background as the child flies on the parent’s shoulders. It’s a story of ardent love that’s situated in a greater foundational legacy. Ages 3–5. [em](Mar.) [/em]