Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

Beauty of Colors: Poems by Cleanne Johnson reminds us of the beauty found around and within us that we often overlook and take for granted. The poet talks about the need to appreciate people based on their character and not their skin color. She encourages people of color to embrace their features, their dark skin, hair, and culture. The book covers freedom from oppression, justice, ancestry, and the lies about Africa that many believed for years. The poems honor mothers and the natural world, showing how both nurture us in ways we barely recognize, pointing out how often we ignore those quiet sacrifices, even though they shape our lives. This book takes you through it all—the love for material things, wrestling with vanity, growing together, soaking up the beauty of God's creation, and hanging onto hope that tomorrow will be kinder and full of love.

Beauty of Colors: Poems is a powerful collection that reminds us of what matters most: our humanity, loving ourselves, self-acceptance, and diversity. Cleanne Johnson writes with passion, making each poem feel close to the heart. It lets her authenticity shine through every page. She does not just write verses; she tells stories of girls who are uncomfortable in their skin and fearful of people judging them before they even get to know them, and of the world crying for help. The poems challenge societal norms and beauty standards, celebrate melanin, and inspire readers to appreciate their uniqueness and not put others down for their differences. The imagery, metaphors, and emotions will stick with you forever. I loved how the author uses nature to express growth, resilience, and the cycle of life, showing how we are all connected to one source. The photos of nature, birds, waves, and the land add depth to the poems and give readers a visual story. I enjoyed this book because it directly confronts racism, colorism, environmental destruction, and societal injustice, while promoting hope and liberation.