When We Say Black Lives Matter is a picture book written and illustrated by Maxine Beneba Clarke. The book centers around Black lives, Black love, Black activism, and Black empowerment delineated through Clarke’s lyrical voice. The narrative follows a Black child’s life from birth to graduation, as we listen to their parents and learn what the term ‘Black Lives Matter’ means: in protest, song, joy, and sorrow.
Explore our When We Say Black Lives Matter learning resources, which can be enjoyed by educators and parents alike.
Author and illustrator Maxine Beneba Clarke has filmed an educational video in which she provides an explanation into her creative process, including the artistic styles, techniques, and construction of the artwork. Furthermore, Clarke provides activities and discussion points to raise when reading the book with children at home or within the classroom.
The teachers resources provide extensive material to inform discussion in the classroom. They unpack the key themes of the book, with a focus on equality, respect, and inclusivity. The notes link to English Language and Literacy and Visual arts curriculum, guiding students through language techniques, such as alliteration, assonance and onomatopoeia and a study of stained-glass artwork. These teaching resources further provide young readers with activities suitable for classroom or at home learning. Examples of activities include student’s creating their own artwork inspired by Clarke’s distinctive style, and writing in first, second and third person.
Download resources here.
Activities & Crafts for Book Week At Home
Many of us are celebrating Book Week in isolation this year, but fear not! There's plenty of book-inspired crafts and activities for the kids to enjoy from home.
Enjoy some of our book-based activity sheets these school holidays!
Home Learning Resources for Kids
Keep children entertained and engaged in learning activities at home with these fun book-based teachers resources!
Children’s Book Council of Australia Notables 2017
Hachette Australia is delighted to congratulate our authors listed in the CBCA Notables list for 2017
We chat with Charlotte Barkla, author of Let's Try Again Another Day.