For some time, I’ve noticed a continued lack of Black/African American reviewers for middle grade and young adult literature. There are a few of us working with some of the traditional review sources, and there are a few blogs that come and go, but I don’t see a lot of continuity. Having Black/African American reviewers of books by and about us is critical to maintaining representation not only in the community of reviewers, but in the books themselves. I try to provide reviews, but I just get too busy to turn them out as much as I should.  

Last year, I reached out to scholars, librarians, and educators to begin Black Cotton Reviews. We review middle grade and young adult books with the intention of lifting up Black voices. The community is a great spot for nascent reviews to hone their skills discussing books in a professional manner, and for those who are more proficient to be able to share reviews as part of a community. Many of our reviewers have access to books through their libraries, or have access to online ereview copies, or copies we’re able to acquire through publishers. Members commit to provide a review every other month, however life does sometimes get in the way of that! We understand.

With our anniversary coming in April, we’d like to celebrate by adding a few new reviewers. We’re looking for Black educators, libraries, scholars or students who have some experience writing reviews. This is a two-year commitment.

Interested? Take just a moment to complete this brief form. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdbONN654jndT-hJpY5RO80X0xtqLQbp5Q-JktyQq2LnSgvTQ/viewform?usp=sf_link