📘 Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
By Carole Boston Weatherford; Illustrated by Floyd Cooper
Genre/Category: Historical Nonfiction / Coretta Scott King Award Winner
Target Age Group: Ages 8–12
Format Read: Physical Copy
🌀 Plot Summary (1–2 Sentences)
This powerful nonfiction picture book recounts the tragic events of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, focusing on the destruction of the prosperous Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It honors the lives lost, the resilience of the community, and brings awareness to a part of U.S. history that was long left untold.
✅ Why I Chose This Book
I’ve always loved learning about history, and I was especially curious to see how authors and illustrators present historical events, particularly traumatic ones, for a young audience. I wanted to explore how creators balance truth-telling with age-appropriate storytelling. I chose Unspeakable not only because of the topic, but also because it appeared on several major lists: the Bluebonnet, Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Award, and even banned books lists. That kind of recognition made me want to see what made this book so impactful, and I wasn’t disappointed.
🔍 Evaluation
1. Theme and Tone
The book does an extraordinary job of addressing a heavy, painful topic with honesty and respect, while remaining sensitive to its intended age group. It doesn't shy away from the facts, but it also doesn’t overwhelm young readers with graphic violence. The tone is solemn and reflective, yet filled with dignity and resilience. It invites children to learn about injustice while also seeing the strength and humanity of the Greenwood community.
2. Illustrations
Floyd Cooper’s illustrations are both haunting and beautiful, my favorite combination! He uses a soft-focus technique with warm tones to give the art a dreamlike, almost historical-document feel. I loved how he illustrated the bustling streets of Greenwood to show its vibrancy and pride before the tragedy occurred. The shift in imagery, from joy to horror to resilience, mirrors the emotional journey of the story. His artwork doesn’t just accompany the text; it deepens the reader's understanding and emotional connection to the events.
3. Educational Value/Message
This book is a powerful educational tool. It opens the door for necessary conversations about race, injustice, and hidden history. It’s especially important because the Tulsa Race Massacre was left out of many history books for so long. The way the author includes a factual timeline and author’s note at the end provides context and helps caregivers and educators continue the discussion. It’s a book I believe should be in every classroom and library.
📚 Reference
Weatherford, C. B., & Cooper, F. (Illustrator). (2021). Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre. Carolrhoda Books.