Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks

Author(s) Suzanne Slade
Illustrator(s) Cozbi A. Cabrera
Age Group 6-10
Publisher Harry N. Abrams
ISBN 978-1419734113
Year 2020
Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks

Gwendolyn Brooks (1917–2000) is known for her poems about love, loneliness, family, and poverty—showing readers how just about anything could become a beautiful poem. The book follows Gwendolyn from early girlhood into her adult life, showcasing her desire to write poetry from a very young age. The biography explores the intersections of race, gender, and the ubiquitous poverty of the Great Depression—all with a lyrical touch worthy of the subject. Gwendolyn Brooks was the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize, receiving the award for poetry in 1950. A bold artist who, from a very young age, dared to dream.

Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks