Black Star

Supremely satisfying and zings with confidence * The Times, Children’s Book of the Week *Following on from The Door of No Return (though it can also be read as a standalone), this superb 12+ verse novel demonstrates all Alexander’s characteristic power to move, shock and transport. * The Guardian *Wonderful * The Week, Best Summer Books for Older Children 2025 *Alexander skillfully builds on the strengths of the first installment in portraying a strong sense of community and family, often in the face of capricious violence…The presence of real-life historical figures and events helps capture the tenor of life in segregated Virginia, while the beautifully flowing poetry contributes to the book’s engaging qualities. A powerful and thoroughly satisfying blend of sports, history, family saga, and self-discovery – starred review * Kirkus *Set in the segregation-era American South, this outstanding novel-in-verse shares an emotionally charged story of struggle, courage, family and faith. * LoveReading4Kids *

Kwame Alexander is a poet, educator, and the New York Times bestselling author of numerous books, including Rebound, shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, The Crossover, winner of the Newbery Medal, and The Undefeated, winner of the Caldecott Medal. Kwame is also the recipient of several other awards, including the Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award and the Coretta Scott King Author Honour. He is the writer and executive producer of The Crossover TV series, which won a Daytime Emmy Award, and is co-founder of LEAP for Ghana, an international literacy programme.