The Undefeated — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
A 2020 Newbery Honor Book
Winner of the 2020 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
The Newbery Award-winning author of THE CROSSOVER pens an ode to black American triumph and tribulation, with art from a two-time Caldecott Honoree.
Originally performed for ESPN's The Undefeated, this poem is a love letter to black life in the United States. It highlights the unspeakable trauma of slavery, the faith and fire of the civil rights movement, and the grit, passion, and perseverance of some of the world's greatest heroes. The text is also peppered with references to the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, and others, offering deeper insights into the accomplishments of the past, while bringing stark attention to the endurance and spirit of those surviving and thriving in the present. Robust back matter at the end provides valuable historical context and additional detail for those wishing to learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Undefeated appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book addresses themes of violence related to the struggles faced by African Americans, including references to the violence of the civil rights movement and police brutality. This is framed within the context of historical and ongoing oppression. No genuinely frightening content is present in the book. While it addresses serious themes, it does so in a way that is educational rather than scary.
Does The Undefeated have violence?
The book addresses themes of violence related to the struggles faced by African Americans, including references to the violence of the civil rights movement and police brutality. This is framed within the context of historical and ongoing oppression.
Does The Undefeated have scary content?
No genuinely frightening content is present in the book. While it addresses serious themes, it does so in a way that is educational rather than scary.
Does The Undefeated have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The narrative is a tribute to African American experiences and does not include religious practices or beliefs.
Does The Undefeated have racial/cultural content?
The book is a lyrical tribute to the history and experiences of Black Americans, addressing themes of racism, resilience, and the struggles faced throughout history. It highlights the trauma and triumphs of African American experiences from enslavement to the present day.
Does The Undefeated have profanity?
No profanity is mentioned in the book. The content is appropriate for children and focuses on inspirational themes.
Does The Undefeated have climate change?
No climate themes are present in the book. The narrative centers on historical and cultural experiences rather than environmental issues.
Does The Undefeated have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in the book. The focus is on the historical and cultural experiences of African Americans rather than on sexual themes.
Does The Undefeated have gender roles?
The book does not actively discuss or critique gender roles. It focuses on the experiences of African Americans without specific commentary on gender dynamics.
Does The Undefeated have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are mentioned in the book. The search results focus on the book's tribute to African American heroes and struggles, with no reference to LGBTQ+ representation.
