Themed Reviews (Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)

Themed Reviews

Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. sought to forge the common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together to address important community issues. On January 21st, 2008, millions of Americans across the country will once again honor his legacy by taking part in a wide range of service projects-conducting food drives, painting schools and community centers, recruiting mentors for needy youth, and bringing meals to homebound neighbors, to name but a few. (Taken from www.mlkday.org.)

Reviews

100 Greatest African Americans: A Biographical Encyclopedia
Molefi Kete Asante
Throughout American history African-Americans have made significant contributions across a broad spectrum of fields. Who cannot be moved by the poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks? What audience can fail to be touched by the words of playwright Lorraine Hansberry as epitomized by her masterwork A Raisin in the Sun? Who can overlook the courage necessary for men such as Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali to not only excel in professional sports but also make a brave political stand? In the political domain, can the influence of people such as Colin Powell, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King upon the course of modern American history be refuted? Here, in Molefi Kete Asante's encyclopedic approach to 100 African-Americans who left their stamp upon American history, readers will be afforded the opportunity to learn about familiar and unfamiliar people who helped shape their fields. In each of the 100 selections the author does a capable job of highlighting the lives of the individuals in question. Mention is made of significant works, events, and efforts as well as the barriers many of these people had to overcome. The individuals chosen span a variety of fields inclusive of the arts, politics, civil rights advocacy, sports, and media. This biographical encyclopedia represents an exhaustive amount of research and is a valuable reference book that opens doors to people and events of importance. 2002, Prometheus Books, Ages 12 up, $49.00. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 1-57392-963-8

The 1963 Civil Rights March
Scott Ingram
On Wednesday, August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have A Dream" speech, which became world renown, before a crowd of more than 200,000 people attending The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The famous, peaceful march from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial took place at the height of the Civil Rights movement. This 48-page reference for elementary and middle school students is part of the "World Almanac Library of Landmark Events in American History." The book follows the series' engaging format, telling the story of the march from its roots in slavery and segregation through its legacy today, as personified by achievements of African Americans serving in leading positions in the presidential administration of George W. Bush. An introduction first explains the Civil Rights March of 1963 and its historical context. Then follow five short chapters addressing the history leading up to it, from slavery to segregation, the Civil Rights Movement, planning the march, the day of the event, and its aftermath, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the King assassination. As with other books in the series, a "conclusion" section characterizes how the march is remembered now, and why it was and is still important. Photographs, maps and original source materials supplement the text. Page layout integrates artwork and boxed passages about related subjects, including, for example, the 1866 Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, and information about some of the people who have played significant roles in the Civil Rights movement. The book also includes a timeline, glossary and resources for further research. 2005, World Almanac Library, $22.50. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: J. H. Diehl (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-83685-392-X
ISBN: 0-83685-420-9
ISBN: 978-0-83685-392-6

50 American Heroes Every Kid Should Meet
Dennis Denenberg and Lorraine Roscoe
Some of the heroes featured in this excellent text are quite well known, such as Clara Barton, Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. Entries about more obscure heroes, such as Ida B. Wells and Elizabeth Blackwell, are sure to enlighten readers. The heroes represent and celebrate the diversity of this country; and so white, black, Asian, Native and Hispanic Americans are included. In addition, women and men from all periods of this nation's history are represented. Each hero is allotted two pages. Under each hero's name, dates of birth and death are listed, as is a brief caption summarizing his or her unique contribution. Additional books about each hero are listed. The easy-to-read text and black-and-white photos combine to make this a valuable resource for middle school children. 2001, The Millbrook Press, $29.09. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D. (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7613-1612-4

Americans Who Tell the Truth
Robert Shetterly
   The compelling title of this picture book generates immediate questions. Telling the truth about what? Doesn't everyone tell the truth? What is truth, anyway, and who could be cited in this book about truth saying? Shetterly, in response to 9/11, decided to collect a group of Americans who stand up for and speak out about what is important to them and to us as Americans and global inhabitants. Surely his list will differ from each of ours but it is an impressive list, nonetheless. They range from Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, and Chief Joseph to the less predictable Noam Chomsky and Howard Zinn. Each beautifully painted portrait is accompanied by a telling quote as well as a synopsis of their role in the world (anarchist, professor, political activist, poet). Not surprisingly, politicians are few and far between. The backmatter includes further information on each person for interested readers. In the hands of a good teacher, this book could be the springboard for untold discussions on what it means to be a citizen. I love this piece of the dedication: "This book of portraits is dedicated to all those who have fought with such persistence and courage to close the gap between what the United States says about equality, justice, and democracy and what it does." That is powerful. 2005, Dutton, $18.99. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Joan Kindig, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
   Kirkus Book Review Stars, May 15, 2005; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
   Children's Book Award Winner 2006 Intermediate Nonfiction United States
ISBN: 0-525-47429-3
ISBN: 978-0-525-47429-6

The Civil Rights Act of 1964
Jason Skog
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 by Jason Skog is part of the "We the People" series. Skog's book begins by explaining the problems with unfair laws and segregation that existed in the 1960s and continues through to the onset of the civil rights movement--and thus the Civil Rights Act. Readers will learn all sorts of information connected to civil rights. For example, Skog explains that the Jim Crow laws got their name from the comedian Thomas Rice who performed the song "Jump Jim Crow" in 1832. "Rice, who was white, wore blackface, a dark makeup that made him appear to be African-American. His acting and singing made fun of African-Americans and what he called their 'comic' lifestyle." Everything from leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr. to extremists such as Morton Rolleston ("owner of the Heart of Atlanta Motel, [who] challenged the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by suing the United States of America") are covered. Also, Skog explains how the Civil Rights Act of 1964 does not just help African-Americans. The text clearly explains how "the bill included equal rights for women." This look at the Civil Rights Act of 1964 gives quite a bit of history for such a complex subject. 2007, Compass Point Books, $25.26. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Joella Peterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7565-2459-3
ISBN: 0-7565-2459-8

The Civil Rights Movement
Jill Karson, Editor
This book is part of the "Opposing Viewpoints in World History" series, which includes discussions of adversarial world and national events. The editor of this title does a magnificent job of presenting a balanced approach. Each chapter begins with a question that is answered with speeches and writings by or discussing the foremost leaders and thinkers of the relevant period. Although it discusses the Civil Rights Movement, it appropriately begins the debate with extremely important events that preceded the Civil War and Post-Reconstruction. Unlike most books that discuss the Civil Rights Movement, it does not begin and end in the 1960s. The inclusion of writings from Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Dubois, Ida B. Wells, Martin Luther King, Jr, A. Philip Randolph, Malcolm X and many more, makes this book quite exceptional. It is a compilation of writings, speeches and critiques of the persons that made the movement. It supplies an index, bibliography, discussion questions, and a chronology of events. Every school in America should have this book. 2004, Greenhaven Press/Thomson Gale, $34.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Gilda R. Daniels (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7377-2578-8
ISBN: 0-7377-2577-X
ISBN: 978-0-7377-2578-0

Coretta Scott King: Civil Rights Activist
Dale Evva Gelfand
In her lifetime, Coretta Scott King rose from humble beginnings to near iconic status, mostly as a source of silent strength behind her husband, legendary leader Martin Luther King Jr. The events and experiences that shaped Coretta's life are chronicled in this book. She was born to hardworking parents in a rural area of Alabama. As a young girl she and her family encountered both subtle and blatant forms of racism. Rather then quell her, these incidents fueled her determination to succeed. She was a college-educated, career-driven young women when she first met the man who would become her husband. It was as the wife of Martin Luther King Jr. that Coretta realized her true calling and became passionately involved in the civil rights movement. After Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Coretta became "keeper of the dream" and a leader in her own right. This fascinating book details the remarkable life of a woman who worked selflessly to better the lives of others. 2007, Chelsea House/Infobase Publishing, $30.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Denise Daley (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7910-9522-3
ISBN: 978-0-7910-9522-5

Don't Know Much About Martin Luther King, Jr.
Kenneth C. Davis
Illustrated by Machiyo Kodaira
Part of the "Don't Know Much About..." series, this biography is presented as a directed sequence of questions that lead the reader to understand the life and influence of Martin Luther King, Jr. While most suitable for ages 8 to 12, the format, language, and content are very useful for older readers as well. It would be an excellent choice for ESL students and adults. Learning about MLK's childhood lays the groundwork for understanding the influences that help mold him into the leader that he became during the Civil Rights Movement. Davis discusses the difficult issues of racial prejudice and injustice with truth and tact, while giving lots of background history in informational sidebars. He uses many direct quotes from the people of the time, which gives validity to the narrative answers of specific questions. As the questions progress through the stages of this powerful leader's life, we learn about his fervent desire to end segregation through nonviolent protests. His interest in Gandhi's work in India greatly influenced his own approach to peaceful efforts for changing the segregation policies in the U. S. Black-and-white drawings enhance the text, a timeline gives important dates, and a detailed index makes this an excellent research resource. This title is a readily accessible introduction to the life and times of Martin Luther King, Jr. 2006, Harper Collins, $4.99. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-442129-5
ISBN: 978-0-06-442129-4
ISBN: 0-06-028822-1
ISBN: 978-0-06-028822-8
ISBN: 978-0-06-442129-4

Free at Last!: The Story of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Angela Bull
A nicely written first biography of the great civil rights hero, Martin Luther King, Jr. My eight-year-old read it and stopped me several times with "And listen to this, Mom!" Nice illustrations, lots of photos and sidebars, and an index and glossary are included. Part of the "Dorling Kindersley Readers" series. 2000, DK Publishing, Inc., $12.95. Ages 8 to 10. Reviewer: A. Braga
ISBN: 0-7894-5716-4
ISBN: 0-7894-5717-2

Freedom Walkers: The Story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott
Russell Freedman
   Written by an acclaimed author of nonfiction for young readers, this well-researched account of the Montgomery bus boycott is a must-read for students in the upper elementary grades and middle school. The account sets the stage for the boycott by reviewing what life was like for blacks living in the South in the 1950s. The author uses personal accounts of various citizen participants as well as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr., providing powerful words and experiences for readers. The numerous black-and-white photos make it seem like this event occurred long ago, but many teachers will have actually lived through this turbulent time and can relate to it. Students today need to be informed of the courage of others and the struggles overcome to appreciate the freedoms that they do have today. A bibliography and sources for the many quotes in the book are included. The eyewitness accounts bring this story to life. 2006, Holiday House, $18.95. Ages 10 to adult. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
   Best Books of the Year, 2006; School Library Journal; United States
   Best Children's Books, 2006; Kirkus; United States
   The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2007; Bank Street College of Education; Outstanding Merit; United States
   Booklist Book Review Stars, Sep. 15, 2006; United States
   Children's Books 2006: 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing, 2006; New York Public Library; United States
   Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, Supplement, 2007; H.W. Wilson; United States
   Choices, 2007; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
   Horn Book Fanfare, 2006; United States
   Kirkus Book Review Stars, September 1, 2006; United States
   Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to Ninth Edition, 2007; H.W. Wilson Company; United States
   Notable Books for a Global Society, 2007; United States
   Notable Children's Books, 2007; ALSC American Library Association; United States
   School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2006; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
   Cybils Winner 2006 Non-Fiction Middle Grade and Young Adult United States
   Flora Stieglitz Straus Award Winner 2007 United States
   James Madison Book Award Honor Book 2007 United States
   Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor Book 2007 Books for Older Children United States
   NAACP Image Award Nominee 2007 Outstanding Literary Work-Youth/Teen United States
   Once Upon a World Children's Book Award Winner 2006 United States
   Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children Honorable Mention 2007 United States
ISBN: 970-0-8234-2031-5
ISBN: 0-8234-2031-0

If You Lived at the Time of Martin Luther King
Ellen Levine
Illustrations by Anna Rich
Updated from the 1990 edition, this well-written, historically rich text deserves a spot in every school and public library collection. In the attempt to paint a portrait of key events, people, and beliefs associated with the Civil Rights Movement in America, Levine refuses to over-simplify, conceal, or glorify. She is honest in the telling, sharing vividly but not gratuitously the physical and emotional violence that resulted in the attempt to enact equality in the United States-from the Birmingham church bombings to the attempts by Bull Connor to break-up a children's protest using water hoses and attack dogs. Levine defines and provides contextual information for difficult concepts (segregation and nonviolent direct action, for example) and reveals lesser-known historical truths to fill in the gaps often existent in classroom textbooks. Readers learn, for instance, that teenager Claudette Colvin paved the way for Rosa Parks by first refusing to give up her seat on the bus and that President Kennedy gained support from black voters in his support of Martin Luther King, Jr. The illustrations capture well the strong emotions experienced by those on all sides, leaving readers sometimes uncomfortable but always inspired to think carefully and critically. The text is organized by key-questions, making it easy to navigate, and ends with a timeline of important events, list of places to visit, and music and lyrics to "We Shall Overcome." 2006, Scholastic, Ages 7 to 10, $5.99. Reviewer: Wendy Glenn (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-590-42582-X
ISBN: 978-0-439-42582-7

I've Seen The Promised Land: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Walter Dean Myers
Illustrated by Leonard Jenkins
   This work details the life, career, and death of Martin Luther King, Jr. Starting with King's birth and later pastoral career, Myers highlights some of the central civil rights battles in which King was engaged. The work also discusses King's liberal and pacifistic principles, including Gandhi's influence on King's beliefs and King's disagreement with Malcolm X. The pictures complement the ideological content by depicting protestors, peace signs, political graffiti, police, and police dogs. Jenkins's brushstrokes frequently add as much texture as color to each image, often creating a desire to touch the page. His choice of colors deepens the emotional power of his work. Yellows give a divine touch to certain images while a bright purple tends to charge tense images. The book includes in the work's illustrated end papers a chronology of the major events in King's life. 2004, HarperCollins Publishers, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: K. C. Manus (Children's Literature).
   As in all Walter Dean Myers' books, his straightforward words compel the reader to attend. It is the violence of color and image in Jenkins' illustrations that adds a powerful depth to those words. Myers chooses to tell about the Montgomery bus boycott, jail, the March on Washington, Malcolm X's and John F. Kennedy's assassinations, and the final protest march in Memphis that ended a few days later in Dr. King's death. He writes not a biography as much as an exploration of whether Dr. King achieved his desires. Myers contrasts the violence against those who were struggling to obtain justice with Dr King's belief in nonviolence as a means of bringing the demands of justice to reality. The reader is left with uncertainty as to which prevailed. Unfortunately, reducing these events to a few pages creates the same problems that brief treatments in history texts do; for example, he writes that the bus boycott was in response to Mrs. Parks' arrest, creating a background for Dr. King's participation, though the boycott had long been planned and was awaiting the right opportunity to be put into action. Myers' and Jenkins' invitation to share Dr. King's vision of the promised land is certainly a book parents or teachers could share with children, but the readability and illustrations are more appropriate for older children. 2004, HarperCollins, $15.99. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Diane Carver Sekeres, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
   Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2005; H. W. Wilson; United States
ISBN: 0-06-027703-3
ISBN: 0-06-027704-1
ISBN: 978-0-06-027703-1

King's Courage
Stacia Deutsch and Rhody Cohon
Illustrated by David Wenzel
If babysitting a two-year-old were not already hard enough, the gang from the "Blast to the Past" series has to keep their eyes on Jacob and Zack's baby brother Gabe as they travel back and forth between 1965 and the present. To make matters worse, their teacher Dr. C's travel-machine computer is broken, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is ready to give up his dream after the disappointment of "Turn Around Tuesday." Can the kids keep Baby Gabe from disappearing, fix the computer, and convince Dr. King to lead the march on the capital in Montgomery? With the amazing memory and knowledge of Mexican-American Bo, the compassion of narrator Abigail, and the determination of the twins, the readers have positive peer role-models helping bring history to life. Fortunately, the characters are also real and likeable, best shown when the twins express their disagreements and frustrations about the setbacks and learn how to get along in difficult situations by tying in lessons to their own lives from the Civil Rights Movement. Teachers and students will also appreciate the focus on the positive changes America has experienced over the past 50 years, strengthened by statistics and information Bo provides about the 1960s, as well as the factual clarifications in the post-log "Letter to the Readers." Both the story and the characters help the reader appreciate America today, in spite of an ugly chapter in our history. 2006, Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, $3.99. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Heidi Quist (Children's Literature).
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Glyph Award Winner 2007 Best Children-Fiction Book United States
ISBN: 1-4169-1269-X
ISBN: 978-1-4169-1269-9

Let's Get Ready For Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Lloyd G. Douglas
In an easy to read and understand text, emergent readers learn about a relatively new holiday--Martin Luther King Jr. Day. One sentence is used to sum up what Martin Luther King was trying to achieve--he "did not like that African Americans were not treated the same as others." He wanted everyone to live together in peace and harmony. The book closes with a list of new words that includes a guide to pronunciation, references which includes books and a web site, an index and a brief statement about the author and reading consultants. Part of the "Celebrations" series, which in turn is part of a larger series, "Welcome Books." This one is labeled--Early Intervention level 8. 2003, Children's Press/Scholastic, $14.50. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0516242598
ISBN: 0516243519

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
David A. Adler
Illustrated by Colin Bootman
Designated a Level 2 book in the "Holiday House Readers" series, this entry emphasizes Martin Luther King's strong character, which was partially instilled in him by a strong minister father who believed in the rights of all people. Adler enlivens the early pages with a few well-chosen anecdotes and moves readers through King's education and marriage to his involvement in civil rights, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, his speech at the March on Washington, and what he earned as a result--the Nobel Peace Prize, the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. His untimely death and the national holiday in his honor conclude the book. Text is arranged on the page to look inviting, and Bootman's dark watercolor illustrations lend a solemn dignity to the story. "Important dates" arranged sequentially but not in a timeline and a list of four sources end the book. There is no index. This is a useful addition to school libraries. 2001, Holiday House, $14.95. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-8234-1572-4
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States

Martin Luther King
Rosemary Bray
Illustrated by Malach Zeldis
Even from the first page, the author makes readers aware of the segregationist environment that surrounded Martin from birth. She chronicles dramatic events that led to Martin's mission while colorful folk-art painting convey Martin's life with equal poignancy. 1995, Greenwillow, $16.00 and $15.93. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature)
ISBN:0-688-13131-X
ISBN:0-688-13132-8

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Adele Q. Brown
Martin Luther King Jr. was one of America's greatest men. Though his family was better off financially than most Black families in the South; King nevertheless fought tirelessly to gain the equality, dignity, and respect that are due to all mankind. He was greatly influenced by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and the nonviolent confrontation that ultimately won independence for India from Great Britain. King adapted Gandhi's principles, as well as those of Henry David Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience" message, and applied them to the struggle for civil rights in the United States. He helped organize the Alabama bus boycott and many other peaceful marches that energized the Civil Rights movement. His "I Have a Dream" speech--given from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., will forever rank as one of the most inspired speeches of our time. His assassination, on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, was not a surprise, even to King himself. In his last speech, he said, "Like anybody I would like to live a long life...I may not get there with you." Part of World Almanac Library's "Trailblazers of the Modern World" series, a timeline, glossary, list of further resources, and index are included. A great introduction to the life of a great American. 2004, World Almanac Library, $30.60. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Christopher Moning (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-83685-091-2
ISBN: 0-83685-251-6
ISBN: 978-0-83685-091-8

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Christine Hatt
What an interesting book. The first six, short chapters give an exceptional amount of information about Martin Luther King Jr. To emphasize the selected messages, events, and dates for the reader, the author uses color to highlight the text. The photographs selected to accompany the text capture both the hope and despair of the individuals fighting for civil rights. This is a book explaining the events that led up to the death of Martin Luther King Jr. The last section of the book, which I found to be most interesting, is called, "Judge for Yourself." Readers are asked such questions as "Preacher or Politician?" and "Free at Last-Reality or Illusions?" The author then provides information for both sides of the argument. Once the sources and opinions are read, the reader is asked to make the decision himself. This book would be outstanding choice for introducing debates in a classroom or for classroom discussions before a writing activity. The research has already been done for the student. There are a total of five of these questions, all of which make the reader think both critically and objectively. A glossary, map and index are also included. 2004, World Almanac Library, $30.60. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Kathie M. Josephs (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
ISBN: 0-83685-562-0
ISBN: 0-83685-565-5
ISBN: 978-0-83685562-3

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Amy Pastan
Martin Luther King, Junior, was born into the segregated society of Atlanta, Georgia in 1929. At the age of fifteen, King entered Morehouse College and, just three years later, graduated and became an assistant pastor at Ebenezer Baptist, where his father also served as pastor. He later studied at Crozer Theological Society, where he learned about Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent resistance, and at Boston University. He thought he could take Gandhi's methods and "Jesus' message of 'love your enemy' to new levels." After marrying Coretta Scott, he returned to the south and began serving as a pastor at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. After the famous 1955 incident in which Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to relinquish her bus seat to a white person, King helped form a successful bus boycott. From there, he led and supported various protests aimed at ending segregation and ensuring better opportunities for blacks in America. A highly-gifted speaker, he inspired people of all races to seek a better world. His "I have a Dream" speech, delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, continues to resonate. In 1964, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Just a few years later, on April 4, 1968, he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. Compact yet detailed, this inspiring biography is a helpful addition for learning about King and the Civil Rights Movement. Numerous photographs, a timeline of key events in Martin Luther King, Junior's life, as well as a bibliography and an index are included. 2004, DK Publishing, $4.99. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-75660-342-0
ISBN: 978-0-75660-342-7

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Christy Devillier
Children who read this book about Martin Luther King, Jr. will appreciate the struggles and triumphs that he faced throughout his historic life. The author presents interesting and rarely known facts about Dr. King, such as how he skipped grades 9 and 11 because he was such a good student. Throughout the book there are several highlighted terms relevant to the Civil Rights movement that are defined in the back of the book. Short 2 to 4-page chapters are written at a low reading level and printed in a large font size to facilitate access for beginning readers. There are wonderful photographs and illustrations depicting Dr. King's life along with a timeline of his life, related web sites and an index for quick reference. Overall, it is a well-written account that will inform young researchers about this great American hero. It is part of ABDO's Buddy Books "First Biographies" series. 2001, ABDO Publishing, $21.35. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewer: Melissa A. Caudill (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 1-57765-592-3

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Lucia Raatma
Martin Luther King Jr. made history in his struggle for civil rights. He was not only a great speaker and believer in a better world, but someone who believed all mankind could live in peace. He spent his life working for the betterment of all people. In her book, Lucia Raatma provides the young reader with a picture of this amazing man and his life. With photographs and simple language, Ms. Raatma can do what many have difficulty doing, explain the wonder and greatness of this man without confusing a young reader. Her simple explanations of his power and the moments surrounding this time in our history make the book a good choice for any classroom or media center collection. Through her words, Ms. Raatma is able to convey the reverence both supporters and detractors held for Martin Luther King Jr. She shows that he not only changed the minds of regular citizens but of Presidents and heads of state. While the book is written for younger children, Ms. Raatma does not sugar coat how blacks were treated during this time. Included in the book are a glossary and a timeline. "The Want to Know More" section is made up of books, web sites and places children can go to learn more about the struggle for civil rights. Part of the "Compass Point Early Biographies" series. 2002, Compass Point Books, $19.93. Ages 4 to 10. Reviewer: John D. Orsborn (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7565-0114-8

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Lola M. Schaefer
Like Mahatma Ghandi and Cesar Chavez, Martin Luther King, Jr. wanted changes to better the lives of his people. He wanted to end segregation and he wanted to do it without violence. He became a minister and worked hard for laws that would treat people equally regardless of their ethnic backgrounds or skin color. He and the Civil Rights Movement succeeded. This beginning biography tells the story, but omits the fact that he was assassinated and never references his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Black-and-white photographs accompany the text. Definitions, a short bibliography with Internet sites, and an index round out this mini-biography. Part of the "Famous Americans" series. BIBLIO: 1999, Pebble Books/Capstone, $13.25. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7368-0111-1

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Pamela Walker
Part of the "Welcome Books Real People" line, Martin Luther King Jr. is one of six titles that introduces the youngest readers to biographies. This is a nicely designed series that features an African-American who is celebrated each January and throughout the year for his civil rights activities. The 24-page format and small, square trim size make the books easy for little hands to hold. The text is consistently placed. One or two sentences in large, plain type face the bleed-to-the-edge photographs or full-color art. The illustrations reinforce the narrative rather than enhance. Emergent readers can choose from a variety of multicultural personalities and historical figures. Each title has seven sections. The first three are devoted to the subject's life. "New Words" defines words outside the controlled vocabulary. "To Find Out More" lists further reading and web sites. The last page consists of the index and professional references. The "Real People" series has one flaw. Readers who can decode words like "African-Americans" deserve meatier material than, for example, "many people liked his speeches." 2001, Children's Press, $13.50. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Candice Ransom (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-516-23436-6
ISBN: 0-516-23590-7

Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil Rights Leader and Nobel Prize Winner
Andrew Santella
I was fortunate enough to be standing below the podium at the Lincoln Memorial on that hot August day in 1963. I was close enough so that I could look up and see Martin Luther King's face as he delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. It was truly a magnifying experience. The author covers this event and gives a detailed description of Dr. King's early childhood. In many instances he was just like other children. He delivered newspapers, loved sports and did well in school. However, he learned at an early age of the unfairness of discrimination. As he grew older he studied about Mohandas Gandhi and how he led the struggle for independence of his people. When Rosa Parks was arrested for not giving up her seat to a white man, he lead a boycott of the buses in Montgomery, Alabama. It took a year but the boycott was a success. The United States Supreme Court ruled that segregated buses in Alabama were illegal. This evolved to further nonviolent protests throughout the south. The Congress of the United States eventually passes the Civil Right Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination in schools, work and public places. For his efforts in bringing about change through nonviolence, Dr. King received The Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. He continued his work to end injustice against African Americans until his assassination in 1968. His life is a true example of how changes can be made to improve lives without violence. This is part of the "Journey to Freedom, The African American Library Series." All books in the series include a timeline of events and a glossary. 2004, The Child's World, $28.50. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Leila Toledo (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 1-5676-6539-X

Martin Luther King Jr.: Dreaming Of Equality
Ann S. Manheimer
   Readers will feel like they are sitting in King's congregation or marching by his side to protest injustices because his voice resonates throughout this biography. Beginning with King's childhood in Atlanta's Sweet Auburn neighborhood, his family and faith shaped him. King risked his personal comfort and safety to seek equality and tolerance for everyone and pursue ending segregation and discrimination. His wife, Coretta Scott King, and children supported him despite bombings, threats, and his imprisonments. Manheimer does not shy from telling unflattering aspects of King's life and describing the hate, violence, and harassment he endured, ending in his assassination. King suffered exhaustion and despair but continued his work, which ultimately changed laws. This biography is based on solid historical sources, both primary and secondary, listed in the bibliography. To help student researchers, that list should have included more King-related websites such as for the National Park Service's Selma-to-Montgomery National Historic Trail. Manheimer recognizes contributions of overlooked Civil Rights heroines. A document section provides portions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Claudette Colvin's court testimony regarding her resisting bus segregation prior to the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This biography can be supplemented by discussion of how King is portrayed in novels by Ossie Davis, Just Like Martin (1992), and by Harriette Gillem Robinet, Walking to the Bus-Rider Blues (2000). Manheimer's book is part of the "Trailblazer Biography" series. 2005, Carolrhoda/Lerner, $27.93. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Elizabeth D. Schafer (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
   Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
   Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2005; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
ISBN: 1-5750-5627-5
ISBN: 978-1-5750-5627-2

Martin Luther King, Jr.: Great Civil Rights Leader
Jennifer Fandel
Part of the "Graphic Library: Graphic Biographies" series, this brief biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. focuses on his leadership in the civil rights movement. It is noteworthy that the author consulted with an associate professor in African American Studies from Berkeley in creating the narrative and used excerpts from King's own speeches in the dialogue. King's accomplishments are rightfully set within the context of larger community efforts by African Americans to gain access to equal services and rights. The graphic novel style of illustrations, accompanied by dialog balloons and brief narrative boxes, may well entice otherwise reluctant readers to learn more about King's life and the events surrounding the passage of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts. Although there are other extraordinary pictorial works on King (e.g., Martin's Big Words), the graphic novel has unique appeal and growing legitimacy as a format for non-fiction material targeted to middle school readers. Additional utility is provided through two pages of supplemental information about his life and accomplishments, a short glossary, bibliographies of books and Websites, and an index. As well as being an accessible biography, this book could provide an appropriate supplemental text for social studies curriculum on desegregation and civil rights, African American history, or community action. 2007, Capstone Press, $25.26. Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Paula McMillen, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7368-6498-5
ISBN: 0-7368-6498-9

Martin Luther King Jr.: Dreaming of Equality
Ann S. Manheimer
Readers will feel like they are sitting in King's congregation or marching by his side to protest injustices because his voice resonates throughout this biography. Beginning with King's childhood in Atlanta's Sweet Auburn neighborhood, his family and faith shaped him. King risked his personal comfort and safety to seek equality and tolerance for everyone and pursue ending segregation and discrimination. His wife, Coretta Scott King, and children supported him despite bombings, threats, and his imprisonments. Manheimer does not shy from telling unflattering aspects of King's life and describing the hate, violence, and harassment he endured, ending in his assassination. King suffered exhaustion and despair but continued his work, which ultimately changed laws. This biography is based on solid historical sources, both primary and secondary, listed in the bibliography. To help student researchers, that list should have included more King-related websites such as for the National Park Service's Selma-to-Montgomery National Historic Trail. Manheimer recognizes contributions of overlooked Civil Rights heroines. A document section provides portions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Claudette Colvin's court testimony regarding her resisting bus segregation prior to the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This biography can be supplemented by discussion of how King is portrayed in novels by Ossie Davis, Just Like Martin (1992), and by Harriette Gillem Robinet, Walking to the Bus-Rider Blues (2000). Manheimer's book is part of the "Trailblazer Biography" series. 2005, Carolrhoda/Lerner, $27.93. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Elizabeth D. Schafer (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1575056275

Martin Luther King, Jr.: Man of Peace
Patricia McKissack and Fredrick McKissack
This revised edition of the McKissacks' simple and eloquent biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. provides a just-right introduction to the man's life, times and legacy for emerging chapter book readers. The authors deftly trace King's life from his childhood in Atlanta, where he was nicknamed "Tweed" for his fondness of tweed suits, through his nonviolent struggle for civil rights. Included are the Montgomery, Alabama, bus strike following Rosa Park's arrest for non-compliance with segregation laws, the formation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, his "I have a dream" speech, his award of the Nobel Peace Prize and finally his tragic assassination. This is an inspirational presentation of King's achievements, avoiding discussion of any complexities or controversies over King's character (as seems appropriate for this age group of readers). Children should come away from it both humbled and inspired by the power of one man's vision to overcome injustice. Attractively illustrated with black-and-white photographs (including a starkly striking one of a segregated trolley car), the book also includes a helpful time line, glossary, bibliography and index. 2001 (orig. 1991), Enslow, Ages 7 to 11, $14.95. Reviewer: Claudia Mills (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7660-1678-1

Martin Luther King, Jr. and the March on Washington
Frances E. Ruffin
Illustrated by Stephen Marchesi
In August of 1963, 250,000 people came to Washington D.C. to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation (Jan 1, 1863), but black people were still not treated the same as whites. The crowd marched to the Lincoln Memorial and the people sang and listened to speeches. One of the speakers was Martin Luther King, Jr. He had grown up in the South and had first-hand experience with segregation. He has been active as a protester but eschewed violence. He told people "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin..."One year later, the Civil Rights Act of 1994 was passed, which no longer allowed people to be set apart just because of their skin color. Part of the "All Aboard Reading" series. 2001, Grosset & Dunlap, $13.89 and $3.99. Ages 6 to 9. Reveiwer: Charlie Wyman (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-448-42424-X
ISBN: 0-448-42421-5

Martin Luther King, Jr.: Minister and Civil Rights Leader
Brendan January
Author Brenda January chronicles the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. from birth to death but focuses on his humanity and concern for the rights of others. She presents King as a man of compassion but also one full of righteous indignation at the plight of his people. Young people have only heard of King and not known him, so they need this picture of the real man and what he did for all our personal freedoms. What comes as a surprise in this particular biography is the inclusion of career information for those interested in exploring a career as a protestant minister. At first, the information seems to be misplaced--coming at the end of a powerful, moving biography. Yet, at closer observation, the concept makes sense. What better way to introduce a career than by introducing a person who has succeeded at that career? The book also includes a timeline of King's life, Web links and other sources of information about King and about the ministry, an index, credits for the photographs that accompany the text, and a table of contents. The book is part of the "Ferguson Career Biographies" series. 2000, Ferguson Publishing, $16.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: J. B. Petty (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-894343-42-4

Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Margaret McNamara
Illustrated by Mike Gordon
Mrs. Connor took her first graders to the museum. Standing next to a bust of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. she explained that "he had great dreams...about how to make the world a better place." Back in the classroom she asked her students to draw their dreams on a piece of paper. Each student then said what his or her dream was, such as "everyone will be safe," there will be "no more fighting," and "the earth will be clean." Mrs. Connor then told them her dream is that all their dreams come true. There are so many books that focus on King's "I have a dream" speech but most are beyond the understanding of early primary grade students. As part of the "Robin Hill School" and "Ready-to-read" series Level 1, this presents his idea in simple language and short sentences in a story that beginning readers can comprehend. Teachers might also ask their students to draw their own dreams and present them to the class after reading this book. Gordon's full color cartoon-style illustrations will appeal to the young readers. He provides contextual clues for the beginning reader in a clean layout and, at the same time, extends the text to show the students' dreams. 2007, Aladdin Paperbacks/ Simon and Schuster, Ages 5 to 8, $3.99. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 978-1-4169-3494-3
ISBN: 978-1-4169-3495-0

Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Jill Foran
In straightforward text illustrated with photographs, the volumes in this American Holidays series cover holidays, including Columbus Day, Presidents' Day, and Memorial Day. The large print as well as the generous use of white space makes this book suitable with younger children. After a brief introduction to Dr. King's life and work, including the words to his "I have a dream" speech, the author, who is Canadian, explains how the holiday was first created. A list of books and websites for further study as well as the simple index and glossary will assure independent use in the classroom or library. The recipe for Church Social Yeast Biscuits and the two simple crafts (a mobile and milk carton buses) suggested for Martin Luther King Jr. Day projects will be less useful. Recommended for schools or community groups seeking to introduce the holiday or for library research by younger children. Others wishing a good classroom read-aloud about Dr. King might prefer Martin Luther King, Jr., Civil Rights Hero (Raintree Steck-Vaughn, 2002) or Martin's Big Words (Hyperion, 2001). 2004, Weigl Publishers Inc, $22.80. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Augusta Scattergood (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-590-36107-5
ISBN: 1-590-36167-9
ISBN: 978-1-590-36107-8

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Marc Tyler Nobleman
The third Monday in January is a national holiday honoring the work of civil-rights activist; Martin Luther King, Jr. King was born on January 15th, 1929, in Atlanta Georgia, and was a preacher by profession. During the 1960s, King became a leader in the fight against racism, particularly in the southern states. When King was assassinated in 1968, Michigan Congressman John Conyers asked that a holiday be named for him, and the third Monday in January became an official national holiday. Although King was killed early in his adult life, many people continued his fight for equality. One of the strongest advocates for the cause was King's widow, Coretta Scott King. This title is part of the "Let's See" series, which includes books about holidays, ancient civilizations, communications, economics, farm life and national concerns. The holiday set includes eighteen titles, including this one and titles on Passover, Hanukkah, Juneteenth and Cinco de Mayo. The holiday set is thorough in its coverage, using news photos and providing a glossary, an index and web page references. 2005, Compass Point Books, $19.93. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Joyce Rice (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7565-0646-8
ISBN: 978-0-7565-0646-9

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Honoring a Civil Rights Hero
Amanda Doering
How do you tackle the difficult task of explaining to early readers who Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was and why we celebrate his life with a national holiday? Amanda Doering does an excellent job in this addition to the "First Facts" series from Capstone Press. Starting with the civil rights movement of the 1960s, each section explains what segregation was like, how Blacks were treated differently, Dr. King's peaceful marches for change, and even his assassination. Each page spread has vivid historical photos and simple text. Extra information is included in small "Fact!" boxes at the bottom of the page. Highlighted words, such as segregation, civil rights movement, and culture, are defined for readers in a glossary. There is also an art activity for students and ideas about how they can celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This book will be a good resource for teachers to share with young readers during Black History month. 2006, Capstone Press, $15.93. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Marianne Mitchell (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7368-5391-0
ISBN: 0-7368-5391-X

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Helen Frost
As the opening note to parents and teachers states--the "National Holidays" series supports national social studies standards related to understanding events that celebrate the values and principles of American democracy. That said, this book successfully explains why and how we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Full-color illustrations present the work of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the celebration of his holiday. The concluding pages contain a short glossary, a few books and Internet sites and a word list/index. 2000, Pebble Books/Capstone, $13.25. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7368-0543-5

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Honoring a Man of Peace
Carol Gnojewski
This short book presents a surprisingly comprehensive view of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the holiday celebrating his birth. It begins with a description of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, established in the motel where King was killed. The section about his childhood and education emphasizes the prevalence of the Jim Crow Laws. His admiration of Mahatma Gandhi and his commitment to bringing about peaceful change is described. His participation in civil rights demonstrations resulted in more than 200 arrests, but he continued to believe in his cause. The marches on Washington, D.C. and his "I Have a Dream" speech are mentioned, although the text of the speech is not included. The struggle to have his birthday honored as a national holiday is described. In 1994, President Clinton asked people to use the holiday to help others and some examples of appropriate activities are presented. Numerous file photographs appear throughout, giving the book the appearance of a family album. An art activity for a Circle of Friendship, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index make this a good resource for reports on King or his holiday. Part of the "Finding Out About Holidays" series. 2002, Enslow Publishers, $18.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-7660-1574-2

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Doreen Rappaport
Illustrations by Brian Collier
Beautiful it its simplicity, this small biography of Martin Luther King shines forth. Rappaport's text portrays King's childhood in two pages with his discovery that in spite of the "whites only" signs, his mother's words that "You are as good as anyone" would sustain him. When he sang hymns and read from the Bible in church, he vowed that he would grow up to "get big words." His career as a minister, being influenced by Gandhi, participation in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and subsequent civil rights marches, winning the Nobel Peace Prize, threats to his family and his death are touched upon. Each short paragraph ends with a memorable quote relevant to the subject of the page and many are familiar to adult readers. Instead of drawing from the "I have a dream" speech the quote about judging people by the content of their character, the author has selected--"I have a dream that one day in Alabama little black boys and black girls will join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers." It is more accessible to the intended audience, if less ringing and memorable to the adult reader. Collier's stunning collage and bold watercolor illustrations are layered with meanings, textures, light and shadow. Stained glass windows, which appear in many of the illustrations, serve multiple symbolic purposes including providing light and a way of looking past where you are, says the illustrator in a front note. This is obviously a work of great care and love for the subject, a fine introduction and a fitting tribute to the Dr. King and his work. A chronology of important dates includes 1986 when Dr. King's birthday became a national holiday, and a fine selection of additional readings and web sites are suggested. 2001, Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, $16.49 and $15.99. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Susan Hepler, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Doreen Rappaport
Illustrations by Brian Collier
   Yes, there have been a million biographies of Martin Luther King, Jr., but there's something special about Doreen Rappaport and Bryan Collier's Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year it deservedly won both Coretta Scott King and Newbery honor awards. The uniqueness of this book is apparent before you ever open it; the cover bears only a large, smiling, monochromatic illustration of Martin Luther King. The title, author and illustrator are on the back. Opening to the end flaps, one sees the thoughtfulness, artistry and intriguing contrast of brightness and monochromes in Collier's stained glass window collage. His illustrations continue to compel readers through the book. The text begins with notes by author and illustrator. Rappaport notes that she was inspired by King's words, which were simple and direct, yet profound and poetic. Collier explains his use of stained glass as metaphors that blaze out at you like beams of light. The multicolors symbolize multi races...and allow you to look past where you are. The book's combination of text, layout and illustrations have a powerful emotional impact. Rappaport's spare style and prosaic words serve as a background to highlight King's quotations. These appear on every page, emphasized with color and size. Quotations like, "Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that," could be read alone to show King's life, message and legacy. Rappaport's rhythmic, simplistic statements seem inspired by King's rousing sermons and are a tribute to both the man and his vision. 2001, Hyperion, $15.99. Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
   The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
   Booklist: Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2001; American Library Association; United States
   Books About Relationships and Community-Building, 2002; Children's Book Council; United States
   Capitol Choices, 2001; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
   Children's Books of Distinction, 2002; Riverbank Review; United States
   Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
   New York Times Notable Books, 2001; New York Times; United States
   Notable Books for Children, 2002; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
   Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
   School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 2001; Cahners; United States
   School Library Journal: Best Books, 2001; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
   Coretta Scott King Awards Honor Book 2002 Illustrator United States
   New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of the Year Winner 2001 United States
   Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children Honor 2002 United States
   Randolph Caldecott Medal Honor Book 2002 United States
State Reading Lists:
   Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2003; Maryland
   Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2003; Kentucky
ISBN: 0-7868-0714-8
ISBN: 0-7868-2591-X

My Dream of Martin Luther King
Faith Ringgold
In this striking and unique picture book biography of Martin Luther King, the author/illustrator uses a first person, child-like voice to describe some of the main events and accomplishments of the leader's life, within the framework of a dream. The distinctive, large format illustrations also have a child-like, dream-like quality. In spite of this perspective, the struggles of his life and his tragic death are not glossed over. A bibliography and timeline of his life are included. 1995, Crown, $17.00 and $18.99. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-517-59976-7
ISBN: 0-517-59977-5

Nobody Gonna Turn Me 'Round: Stories and Songs of The Civil Rights Movement
Doreen Rappaport
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
   Kwanzaa brings a chance to reflect on the Seven Principles or, in Swahili, Nguzo Saba, of African culture that can help contribute to the building of family, community and culture. This title exemplifies the principles of unity and self-determination. In the face of loss and fear, African Americans fought steadfastly in the late 1950s and '60s for the rights accorded all Americans under the Constitution. By including lesser known figures with heroes such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks, the author emphasizes the importance of everyone who participated. Powerful, indeed, were 8-year-old Sheyann Webb, marching in Selma, Alabama, and Fannie Lou Hamer, a sharecropper who lost home and job trying to register to vote and went on to work for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. Rappaport, who taught in a Mississippi freedom school in 1965, punctuates her text with the freedom songs that served as a rallying force, whether sung in jails, in churches or during protest marches. Illustrator Evans bears eloquent testimony to the struggle with images that range in mood from the grief of mourners at the open casket of murder victim Emmett Till to the determination of women organizing boycotts of segregated buses to the vibrant courage of marchers with upraised fists on the front cover. A compelling rendering of a turning point in American history. 2006, Candlewick, $19.99. Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
   Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, Supplement, 2007; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
   NAACP Image Award Nominee 2007 Outstanding Literary Work- Children United States
ISBN: 0-7636-1927-2
ISBN: 978-0-7636-1927-5

Our Century in Pictures, for Young People
Richard B. Stolley
Reflections are meant to be deeply felt and thought provoking, allowing readers to draw out their own emotions and conclusions. LIFE Magazine has collected and presented to young adults a conglomeration of pictures and essays written by honored children's writers to enable them to experience the events and understand the people who shaped the Twentieth Century. The book portrays pinnacle events and honored achievements through a timeline of pictures to give readers not only the facts but also the feelings these pictures represent. This archive of pictures is assembled into nine eras defining the United States in the Twentieth Century, highlighting the best and worst of human accomplishments. It ranges from the people venturing 'Across the Threshold' in the early 1900s to defining 'Ourfuture.com' at the century's culmination, and highlights the lifetime achievements of Americans like Albert Einstein and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who passed along the way. The colored pages of pictures and the subtext illustrate the changing times in terms of science, the arts, discovery, and destruction. Hopefully readers will grasp the greatness of these people and the magnitude of these events as they were experienced and make their own reflections on the passing times. This book is a collector's piece for any library or a coffee table book that might spark in-depth conversation for the entire family. It is a great way for children to truly understand their history and a great tool to help parents explain what really happened. 2000, Little Brown and Company, All Ages, $25.95. Reviewer: Christine Ballard
ISBN: 0-316-81589-6

Sweet Land of Liberty
Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrated by Leonard Jenkins
Marian Anderson's concert on Easter Sunday, 1939, at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial, has become an important landmark in African American history. Hopkinson relates the story of how a white man, Oscar Chapman, President Roosevelt's Assistant Secretary of the Interior, arranged it when no concert hall would allow a non-white artist to perform. At the Memorial, there could be no segregation. Chapman had been aware of the unjust treatment of African Americans since his childhood in rural Virginia. With the approval of the president, Anderson sang to an enthusiastic audience of 75,000. Chapman went on to open parks and pools in Washington, D.C., to all races. And Martin Luther King, Jr., made his most famous speech in that appropriate location. Jenkins uses mixed media to compose his impressions on double pages, which also include the ample text. His palette favors saturated greens and browns, depicting the historic episodes in linear and patterned panels with sketchy pastel lines in and around. He creates serious scenes, spiritually profound but far from somber. Images of key figures like King, Roosevelt, and of course Anderson are integrated into the visual tapestry. In a note, the author adds information about her research and discoveries. 2007, Peachtree Publishers, $16.95. Ages 5 to 9. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-56145-395-1
ISBN: 978-1-56145-395-5

A Sweet Smell of Roses
Angela Johnson
Illustrated by Eric Velasquez.
Too often, we forget that ordinary citizens, through their own efforts, can bring about significant change. Yes, it is vitally important to have a leader to galvanize the masses, but without people willing to leave the relative safety of their homes to take part in marches and rallies, change might not come about. In this picture book, two young girls decide to join a peaceful march organized by Martin Luther King, Jr. The words freedom and equality appear frequently. Many of the black and white charcoal drawings have a touch of red which draws your eye to the American flag or the bow on the young girls' teddy bear. The concluding scene of the girls safely home in Mama's arms with the scent of the red roses wafting through the window brings home the message of the sweetness of freedom. The notes by the author and illustrator are worth reading before beginning the book. Angela Johnson is already well recognized and Eric Velasquez was selected as a winner of the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe new illustrator award for his first picture book. There is certainly no doubt that he will have a rosy future. 2005, Simon & Schuster, $16.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).

Two young girls (maybe 8 and 9 years old) sneak out of their house early one morning to go downtown and join in a march that is being led by Dr. Martin Luther King. There they join up with other freedom fighters to march through the town towards freedom and equality. Upon their return, their worried (and, no doubt, frantic) mother is relieved to find them safe and sound. When the girls tell her what they did, she smiles with the pride she feels toward her daughters. This testimonial to the young people who walked with their elders during the Civil Rights Movement is illustrated sparingly in charcoal except for an occasional splash of red, meant to remind us of the sweet smell of roses and the good to come from this place and time. 2005, Simon & Schuster, $16.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Joan Kindig, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-689-83252-4

Thank You, Dr. King!
Robin Reed
Illustrations by Dan Kanemoto
Little Bill made a Friendship Flower in school for Dr. Martin Luther King Day. The flowers were to thank Dr. King for making sure that everyone could go to school together, play together, and grow together. He brought it home and showed it to Alice the Great. She had something to show little Bill. It was a scrapbook to honor Dr. King and to remember Dr. King's important dream. Little Bill helped paste the pictures and learned things from Alice the Great, such as working together to make the world a better place, trying to solve problems without fighting, and loving each other even though we look different from one another. Little Bill thought about how he could do better in his own relationships. He pasted his Friendship Flower on an empty page so that everybody could see it and make Dr. King's dream come true. Alice the Great thanked him for being a "super helper." This book is part of "A Nick Jr." series created by Bill Crosby. 2003, Simon and Schuster, $3.50. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer Naomi Butler (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-689-85242-8

Walking to the Bus-Rider Blues
Harriette Gillem Robinet
   This novel recounts the turbulent events of the late 1950s that sparked the American civil rights movement. In Montgomery, Alabama, things haven't been the same since Rosa Parks, a black woman, refused to give up her seat on the bus to a white person. The black community, and some white folks, have been boycotting bus rides ever since. This places a hardship on Alfa, who at twelve years of age helps to support his family by working at a grocery store. But Alfa understands that the community must stand together if they are to overthrow the System, a system that casually treats African-Americans as something less than human. Alfa has other problems, too. His main worry is coming up with the rent money each month, but he is also concerned about Big Mama, his great grandmother and guardian. Even though she is very old and sometimes loses her way, Big Mama refuses to ride the bus. And when money is missing from a wealthy white man's house that Alfa and his family cleaned, suspicion falls on Alfa and his family. In the midst of this turmoil, a young clergyman named Martin Luther King gives rousing speeches that bolster the movement's resolve. And at the end of this finely layered novel, the ray of hope that means equality for all mankind shines a little brighter. 2000, Atheneum, $16.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Christopher Moning (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
   The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
   Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
   Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
   Jane Addams Book Award Honor Book 2001 Longer Book United States
State Reading Lists:
   Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2003; Illinois
   Rhode Island Children's Book Award, 2003; Rhode Island
   William Allen White Children's Book Award, 2002-2003; Kansas
ISBN: 0-689-83191-9

We Are One: The Story of Bayard Rustin
Larry Dane Brimner
This book brilliantly relates the story of a civil rights activist who spent a lifetime working behind the scenes to move the United States toward a more equitable society. The story begins with Rustin's apprehensions over the success of the 1963 Washington, DC, mass protest of racial grievances and returns at the book's end to the success of the March on Washington. Raised by Quaker grandparents active in the NAACP's early years, Rustin acted on his belief in peace and non-violence, including arrest for sitting in the white section of a bus many years before Rosa Parks's act of defiance, a jail term for refusing to serve in the military during World War II, organization of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and advising the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Well-chosen black and white photographs illustrate the text. Visually attractive wide blue and orange-red slashes on each page act as sidebars and may pose problems for a few students; their content, written in white, varies widely from extraneous information to a very important clause that begins a sentence. Material that caused Rustin to be viewed as controversial, such as homosexuality and membership in the Young Communist League, are clearly and tastefully discussed in the Author's Note, which also tells how Brimner went from seeing Rustin's name in a footnote to writing the story of his powerful contribution to society. Excellent supplemental text for this era in US history and highly recommended for all ages. Calkins Creek/Boyds Mill Press, Ages 8 up, $17.95. REVIEWER: Mary Bowman-Kruhm
ISBN: 1-59078-498-7
ISBN: 978-1-59078-498-3

Witness to Our Times: My Life as a Photojournalist
Flip Schulke, with Matt Schudel
Schulke has been taking pictures since 1947. Using a Kodak Brownie Special camera, he started taking pictures and selling reprints when he was in high school. He is best known for his sensitive photographs taken inside the civil rights movement. He states that Martin Luther King, Jr. was the greatest man he ever met. He called him "Doc" and treasured the friendship they shared. Recording an event without becoming part of the action is difficult and Schulke credits King with teaching him this lesson which has stood him in good stead for all these years. Flip estimates that he has shot about 500,000 images in his career. In addition to his coverage of the civil rights movement, he has photographed such famous people as Muhammad Ali, Elvis Presley, Fidel Castro, John F. Kennedy, and Myrlie Evers. He has taken pictures underwater, in space training simulators, in fair weather, and in hurricanes. He has traveled throughout the world to document history in action. Many of his award winning photographs are reproduced in the book. Most are in black and white. Schulke prefers the more dramatic impact of contrasts that are possible in this medium. The few color pieces that are included also exemplify his love of contrasting elements. A bibliography of books written by Schulke and a couple of Web sites are listed for further study. A table of contents and an index aid in finding specific information. 2003, Cricket Books, $19.95. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)
ISBN: 0-8126-2682-6

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Updated 1/10/08

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