Overview

In Pedagogy of the Black Child, David E. Kirkland invites readers into an urgent conversation about race, education, and the future of Black childhoods. Through the lens of his own experiences as a Black child, he examines the hidden ways societal structures undermine the humanity and potential of Black children. Blending personal stories, historical analyses, research, and practical insights, Kirkland weaves a compelling narrative that offers both reflection and actionable strategies, moving readers beyond abstract theories into meaningful actions. His narrative calls on educators, policymakers, and readers alike to confront the realities of racial injustice with courage and conviction to uplift possibilities that create spaces where Black children can thrive—where their dignity is restored, their potential embraced, and their futures are shaped by hope, not despair. A rallying cry for those committed to justice, Pedagogy of the Black Child is not just a book—it’s a blueprint for liberation, urging us all to lift up Black children, nurture their dreams, and commit to creating the conditions that will allow them to soar.

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9781032948935

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Reviews

""Like DuBois, Woodson, (Anna Julia) Cooper, James Baldwin, and bell hooks before him, Kirkland has rightly identified the need to teach Black students in this nation in a way that affirms their humanity, accurately depicts their history, and documents their intellect. This volume is a must read for anyone committed to educating ALL students well."" Gloria Ladson-Billings, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Author of Dreamkeepers ""In Pedagogy of the Black Child, David Kirkland gifts us a language to see how 'vulnerability' moves under the skin and into the souls, the eyes, of children being raised in poverty, drenched in racism, perhaps unseen in their schools. In a text braided with memoir, history and pedagogy, penned in a blended ink of love and pain, Kirkland insists that we see, hear and sit alongside the innocence of Black children and help them grow wings in a nation that has denied them dignity and dreams. And still they fly. Thank you, David. As you weave Fanon and Frankl, Lorde and Morrison, Coates and Shakespeare, you accompany readers into The Void that boils just below our feet and you demand that we nourish Black children’s rich, irrepressible will to be seen, to be loved and to live. When you begin the book, you warn: it won’t be easy. And you kept your promise. But the story you unfold is a fractured, racialized and classed mirror on childhood under racial capitalism in America – too long ignored. You craft a call to action drenched in love."" Michelle Fine, Distinguished Professor of Critical Psychology, The Graduate Center CUNY, Visiting Scholar, University of South Africa ""We need this organic, compelling book, and we need it now! Against dismal political and educational landscapes, Pedagogy of the Black Child offers humanizing guidance, hope and concrete actions for educators and parents of Black children. Like the Dogon people of Mali who tell children, 'Become who you are,' the book makes it clear that, guided by excellent pedagogues and dreamkeepers, Black children can and will soar while keeping their Blackness and souls intact. This book was healing for me and will heal Black educators—as we were all once children. It is candid, raw, complex, and loving. We are reminded that teaching is sweet labor and requires intentionality. Pedagogy of the Black Child astutely outlines the root of the problem and offers strong, viable solutions to erase negative effects of endemic anti-Blackness while multiplying positive impacts. This book is heavy and refreshing at the same time. Compelling, disturbing, and redemptive—it reads like a beautiful semi-autobiographical novel and educational text. As I read this spiritual pedagogy, I could not put it down. It personifies the reality of many Black child. Thank you, David!"" Gloria Swindler Boutte, Distinguished Professor; University of South Carolina, Author/co-author of: Pro-Blackness in Early Childhood Education: Diversifying curriculum and pedagogy in K-3 classrooms; Revolutionary love for Early Childhood classrooms. Nurturing the brilliance of young Black children; Educating African American students. And how are the children; and We be lovin’ Black children. Learning to be literate about the African Diaspora ""This powerful book offers a deeply moving exploration of resilience, community, and the transformative impact of compassionate education. Through vivid memories and honest reflection, the author illuminates the profound role that hope and belonging play in the lives of vulnerable children. Grounded in kindness, the book exemplifies how a single figure can inspire change—not by giving answers, but by creating a safe space for discovery. At a time when many are losing hope, this book masterfully captures the spirit of care, community, and growth, making it an essential read for anyone who believes in the potential of every child to soar."" Curtis L. Lewis, Ph.D., Chairman and CEO of Black Male Educators Alliance (BMEA)

Author Information

David E. Kirkland is an acclaimed writer and cultural critic whose work explores the intersections of race, education, and justice. As the founder and CEO of forwardED, his scholarship and advocacy for educational transformation centers dignity, vulnerable children, and their communities. Known for his passionate voice and deeply personal narratives, Kirkland’s words continue to inspire educators, policymakers, and readers to push beyond boundaries and engage in critical conversations that advance equity and change.

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