The Black Snowman

by Phil Méndez

Book Overview

Through the powers of a magical kente, a black snowman comes to life and helps young Jacob discover the beauty of his black heritage as well as his own self-worth. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0590405527
• ISBN13: 9780590405522
• Release Date: January 1989
• Publisher: Scholastic
• Length: 48 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 8.3" x 11.2"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Positive children's story

A positve children's story for all nationalities but especially for African Americans!

A peak into the Black experience.

Christmas is a time filled with traditions mostly associated with European values. Many families in this country come from different cultures and do not feel that they fit or are comfortable with the traditional celebrations. This book offers a peak into one Black families experience during the holiday times. Within the story are samples of African values of character and bravery. There is a warmth within the characters as well as exciting action filled ending. Enjoy!

An excellent book to help children with racial differences

This book is one that I knew I had to buy immediately. The illustrations are beautiful, and it is a story that will help children who are dealing with differences in life they feel are due to the color of their skin. It encourages pride in ethnicity.

I think this is a great book.

I am a third grade student.I really enjoyed this story. Although, I didn't like it when the snowman melted. The way they talked was funny to me and I liked that. I really liked the Kente cloth.I think everyone would really enjoy this story.

Poignant story enjoyed by teacher and her first graders

Every winter, for five years, I shared this book with my first graders. As I read, we would be drawn into the setting and feelings of the characters, especially those of Jacob. Then we'd have interesting discussions about the snowman, the kente and what it represented, and the various emotions invoked from hearing the story. Now I teach college students (preservice elementary teachers) and will use the book for conversation about multicultural education and integrated curriculum. Thank you, Phil and Carole.