MyMan Blue
illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue
Dial Books for Young Readers, 1999
ISBN: 978-0-8037-2326-9

From the book

The game is/Seventeen to four
But scoring/Isn't why we run
And dribble/And jump
While some/Aim guns.
We hit/The hoops
And shoot/For fun.

from My Man Blue
© 1999 by Nikki Grimes

Teaching guides are available for this title.

Reviews
"This against-the-odds book from Grimes...tells of an African-American boy living in a neighborhood that cuts him no slack, and the man who helps keep his feet grounded and his self-esteem steady against the occasional buffeting of his peers...an old friend of the mother's introduces himself: Blue, a rather steely character wrapped in shades and enigma. Damon (who has just lost his father) is wary of Blue; he gives the man a chance only when it becomes evident that Blue is not about to move in on Damon's home turf...Blue...offers advice of haiku-like simplicity...anger is a dangerous waste, fear useless unless subverted, men don't hit women...Lagarrigue's illustrations are brooding gardens of color...while Damon's cool earnestness...courage and independence—brighten each page." Kirkus, starred review

Awards
100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
A Booklist Editor's Choice
A Book Links Lasting Connection Book
Bank Street College Children's Book of the Year
Society of School Librarians International Honor Book
Marion Vannett Ridgway Award
ABA-CBC Children's Books Mean Business
Newsweek Best Children's Picture Books of the Year
New Yorker Christmas Round-up
Riverbank Review Children's Books of Distinction Finalist
Capitol Choice Children's Book