The Undefeated

work by Alexander

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July 22, 2026

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Kwame Alexander's book, The Undefeated, is an homage to Black life in the United States. This illustrated children's book, published in 2019, was recognized as a Newbery Honor Book in 2020. The artwork for The Undefeated by Kadir Nelson earned him the Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award in 2020. The title itself evokes a sense of resilience and strength, suggesting themes of overcoming adversity and an indomitable spirit.12

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Kwame Alexander
Children’s and young adult books
Published in 2019, The Undefeated is an homage to Black life in the United States. The book was named a Newbery Honor Book in 2020. Kadir Nelson, who illustrated The Undefeated, won the Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award in 2020 for his artwork.
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Published in 2019, The Undefeated is an homage to Black life in the United States. The book was named a Newbery Honor Book in 2020. Kadir Nelson, who illustrated The Undefeated, won the Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award in 2020 for his artwork.
Read More