The Story of Lebanese American Poet Kahlil Gibran
Written by Cory McCarthy, Illustrated by Ekua Holmes
I really liked the poetic writing style of this nonfiction picture book about Kahlil Gibran. The illustrations are done in a beautiful collage. However, I was left with questions. The book tells the story of how he grew up in Lebanon and moved to Boston. It keeps repeating the theme of “his secret hope” that he had to share with the world. While reading I thought, “Wait…so what is his secret hope?” I think the story could be a little less subtle. I am a person who enjoys poetry. I had never heard of Kahlil Gibran, but I didn’t really think the excerpts of his poetry drives me to read more, because it seemed like it didn’t connect with the text. I think elementary schools kids would struggle getting through this book.
Reviewed by Becky Burr, Librarian, Academy Park Elementary
Review shared in January 2024
Rating: ★★★✩✩ (3 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-5
Hope Is an Arrow: The Story of Lebanese American Poet Kahlil Gibran
Written by Cory McCarthy, Illustrated by Ekua Holmes
Candlewick Press
40 pages
Release Date: July 5, 2022
ISBN: 9781536200324
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
