Dave the Potter, Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Bryan Collier

1. Bibliography
Hill, Laban Carrick. 2010. DAVE THE POTTER, POET, SLAVE. by Bryan Collier. New York, NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN 031610731X.

2. Plot Summary
In this book, Laban Carrick Hill tells the real-life story of a slave named Dave who had an exquisite talent for pottery. Dave uses this talent to create clay pots and carved words of poetry into the pots that reflected his viewpoint on his enslaved life. This was considered a high risk for Dave as slaves were not allowed to learn how to read and write.

3. Critical Analysis
Hill's writing in this book could take on a metaphorical sense as it could be suggested that the story is of a slave who used the Earth to tell his story and express himself. This is a well-established connection between the past and the present as this same "Earth" would exist long after Dave's death and the fruits of his talents would still survive. In his writing style, Hill takes the reader on a journey through this book as he explicitly describes how Dave creates his pottery in a step-by-step process. Perhaps the most profound aspect of how the book is written is inclusion of Dave's quote: "I wonder where is all my relation friendship to all--and, every nation." This is reflective of the need for a feeling of true equality that was probably felt by most other slaves living in Dave's lifetime.

Bryan Collier's illustrations, as with any group of illustrations in a good picture book were highly consistent with Hill's language and writing style. The pictures were very sophisticated indicating that the book itself was written and illustrated with the intermediate elementary school-level child (3rd-5th grade) as a target audience member. Children in this age group would be better able to appreciate the level of maturity that is brought across in this book's language and illustration than children in the primary elementary school-level children (Pre-K-2nd grade).

This book would be great to use as a support resource for intermediate elementary school aged students to read and/or have read to while learning about African-American history and/or slavery as it gives a unique perspective on the slaves and teaches the children that despite their bondage, slaves could still have special gifts, talents, and abilities.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"An inspiring story, perfectly presented and sure to prompt classroom discussion and projects. Outstanding in every way."
Booklist-"Collier's gorgeous watercolor-and-collage illustrations recall the work of E.B. Lewis-earth-toned, infused with pride, and always catching his subjects in the most telling poses. A beautiful introduction to a great lost artist."

5. Connections
Related books may include:

• Levine, Ellen. HENRY'S FREEDOM BOX: A TRUE STORY FROM THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. by Kadir Nelson. ISBN 043977733X.
• Nelson, Kadir. HEART AND SOUL: THE STORY OF AMERICA AND AFRICAN AMERICANS. by Kadir Nelson. ISBN 0061730742.