Electric Arches

"Electric Arches" by Eve L. Ewing is a captivating exploration of Black girlhood and womanhood, weaving together poetry, visual art, and narrative prose. Published on September 12, 2017, this book transports readers from the familiar streets of 1990s Chicago to an enchanting realm where historical and contemporary figures alike embark on surreal adventures. Ewing's work challenges the boundaries of reality, featuring icons like Koko Taylor and LeBron James in fantastical scenarios, while everyday objects are transformed into symbols of cultural identity and resistance. Her art, minimal yet profound, enhances the narrative with images like a cereal box decoder ring, deciphering the voices of Black girls. Recommended for middle-school readers, "Electric Arches" sparks essential dialogues about racial justice, gender equality, and educational equity, making it a pivotal addition to discussions on social justice in young educational settings. Engage with Ewing's unique perspective and consider how the intersections of race, gender, and city life shape the journey of growing up.