The Undefeated

The Undefeated is a poem written by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by Kadir Nelson about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout the United States’ history. There are strong and carefully drawn illustrations of famous black artists, singers, civil rights leaders, athletes, and various other figures in the African American community. The poem is a grim reminder of the atrocities that took place through our history as well as reminding us of their sacrifices. Continually, the reader is reminded of those that have overcome adversity in whatever profession they have chosen whether through success or perseverance. The poem looks at various figures like Lebron James, Martin Luther King Jr., Aretha Franklin, African American soldiers from the U.S. Civil War who either sacrificed on the battlefield to those that served and fought bravely and survived. Overall, the poem is a reminder of the African American experience through history from slavery, Black Lives Matter, tragedy, and success.

Alexander, K. (2019). The Undefeated. (K. Nelson, Illus.) axisnow.com. Versify.