★ “To create this moving erasure poem about nonviolent protest and more, Duncan works with the text of an October 1967 talk that Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) gave at South Philadelphia’s Barratt Junior High... Lewis combines gouache, markers, and watercolor with tissue paper to offer images of progress... It’s a work poised to offer crucial guidance on how to build a meaningful life and contribute to the world.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “It is essential that readers understand and appreciate the author’s process of creating an erasure poem, as described in the front matter, before proceeding through this remarkable book. Lewis’ illustrations are bold and impressionistic, filled with an energy that underscores the words. The Dream Builder’s Blueprint is a model for writing with precision and intent, and a tribute to a man who knew the power of words—by an author who clearly does as well.”—Booklist, starred review
★ “This book is a librarian’s or teacher’s dream–a creative and educational take on a subject that is an important part of children’s education. Duncan hones the major themes of the speech (which she encourages readers to watch on YouTube) into easily digestible bits that fit the format of a picture book and that leave lots of room for discussion. Lewis’s freeform artwork, done in mixed media of watercolor, markers, colored tissue and gouache, plays with patterns such as doors, books, cotton bolls, and stairs to create an impressionistic take on the poem... what a great discussion starter for elementary school classrooms.”—Youth Services Book Review, starred review (Rating: 5)
“Uplifting... inspiring reading... (with) Lewis’ evocative images... pithy, rousing, and never more cogent.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Highlighting principles of excellence, activism, and compassion that remain relevant and necessary today, The Dream Builder's Blueprint has a universal message that's ideal for parents, librarians, and teachers looking for a book that distills Dr. King's principles to a level that kids can understand.”—Shelf Awareness
“Using short but powerful sentences, the poem focuses on what your life's blueprint should be... The illustrations are wonderfully abstract, supporting the poem and allowing the words to soar.”—Tasha Saecker, Assistant Director at Appleton Public Library, Appleton, WI
“Listening to the words of Dr. King that day at Barratt Junior High is something I will never forget. I still have a vivid picture of him that will NEVER be erased. His words were an inspiration to me and my classmates.”—Kevin Washington, former National President and CEO of the YMCA and Barrett 8th Grade Class of 1967
“The Dream Builder’s Blueprint is a loving road map to hope for young people in troubling times. In found poetry drawn from Dr. King’s speech during a Philadelphia junior high school visit in 1967, the book joyfully uplifts his message of peace and purpose for a new generation.”—Yolanda Wisher, Philadelphia Poet Laureate, 2016–2017
