Black Birds in the Sky, by Brandy Colbert

     Brandy Colbert tells the story of the Tulsa, Oklahoma race massacre that happened on June 1, 1921. Just over one hundred years ago, and still this event is underreported, hidden, buried, not discussed, not largely written about as part of our nation's racial history. To help uncover this story earns praise for Colbert's first book. This is a story that should be known by students across the country as part of our nation's history. For most of our country's existence, stories such as these were not told in the mainstream, but as uncomfortable as they may be, these events have shaped our nation as much as anything more positive has. We cannot only hear the "good" stories about history, because if we do we are not really understanding who we are as a nation, nor where we have come from.

    That said, and as important s this story is for us to read and know, and for as much of her heart she put into this important book, the book itself isn't super compelling. After reading authors like Steve Sheinkin, who does such an amazing job of telling historical stories for teens, Black Birds is a little tough to keep up with. Even as my human, who loves non-fiction and historical fiction, had a tough time in spots keeping names straight as well as staying engaged with the book. The Tulsa Race Massacre is something we all should know about, and Black Birds is one decent way to start to understand this event. But from a strictly readers point of view, compared to other teen and young adult books, Black Birds is just...okay.

    Know that if you choose to read this, you may have to push yourself at times to keep moving forward. Not because the overall story isn't worth it - it is! - but the writing isn't entirely teen friendly.   3 paws and a wag.