As part of an ongoing initiative, Charity Hill reviews children's books. In this episode, Charity reviews two novels by Lesa Cline Ransome: Finding Langston and Leaving Lymon, which concern two different boys whose families move from South to North in the Great Migration. Charity appreciates Cline Ransom's handling of Langston's pivotal questions "Who am I?" and "Where have I come from?" Poetry and community reground and re-situate the lonesome Langston in his identity. Leaving Lymon concerns the fate of Langston's bully, Lymon. What forces are at work in forming Lymon's negativity? Can extended family, community fellowship, and music give Lymon the stability he needs to move forward?

To purchase Finding Langston.
To purchase Leaving Lymon.

Please enjoy these links on the history of the Great Migration.

• General History
• Map of Great Migration
• Bronzeville, Chicago IL

Find quick book recommendations by following Charity on Instagram.

Enjoy essays on the Bright Wings' blog OR find great book lists personally crafted with you in mind!