By Jazzy Nova

Black Poppies by Stephen Bourne

Have you ever wondered about the people whose stories have been left out of history books? Black Poppies by Stephen Bourne tells the fascinating story of Black people who helped Britain during the First World War.

The book introduces readers to brave soldiers such as Walter Tull, as well as women and other members of the Black community who made important contributions during the war. Their stories show how people from different backgrounds worked hard, made sacrifices and showed incredible courage during a difficult time.

What makes this book especially interesting is that it doesn’t just tell stories about war. It also explores racism and unfair treatment, showing that some people continued to face discrimination even after helping their country. This encourages readers to think about fairness, kindness and why everyone deserves respect.

I particularly like how Black Poppies brings forgotten stories to life and helps readers understand that history is about more than just battles and famous people. It is about real people, their experiences and the difference they made.

I would recommend this book to children who enjoy history and want to learn something new. It is an eye-opening read that teaches us to be proud of people’s achievements, learn from the past and make sure that nobody’s story is forgotten.

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Parents

Black Poppies by Stephen Bourne

Black Poppies by Stephen Bourne is an informative and thought-provoking book that explores the experiences and contributions of Black people in Britain during the First World War. It sheds light on the lives of Black soldiers, women and civilians whose stories have often been overlooked in traditional accounts of history.

This book is a valuable resource for children because it broadens their understanding of the First World War and introduces them to a more inclusive view of British history. Through real-life stories and historical evidence, children can learn about courage, sacrifice and determination, while developing an appreciation for the contributions of people from different backgrounds.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its exploration of racism and inequality. It encourages children to think critically about fairness, respect and the importance of treating everyone equally. These lessons can help them develop empathy, challenge stereotypes and understand why it is important to recognise everyone’s achievements.

Although the subject matter includes difficult historical events, the book provides an opportunity for meaningful discussions between parents and children about identity, belonging and remembrance.

Overall, I would recommend Black Poppies to parents who want to encourage their children to explore history beyond the traditional curriculum. It is an excellent starting point for conversations about diversity, equality and the importance of remembering the contributions of all communities. Most importantly, it helps children understand that everyone’s story deserves to be heard