- Feb 21, 2024
The Autobiography of
Mrs. Coretta Scott King
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Godwin Books
(Henry Holt and Company
(pub.1.2.2)
40 pages
Ages 4-8
Author: Coretta Scott King
with the Reverend Dr. Barbara Reynolds
Illustrator: Ekua Holmes
Character: Coretta Scott King
Overview:
"This is the autobiography of Coretta Scott King––wife of Martin Luther King, Jr.; founder of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (the King Center); architect of the MLK, Jr. legacy; and global leader in movements for civil and human rights as well as peace. Learn about how a girl born in the segregated deep south became a global leader at the forefront of the peace movement and an unforgettable champion of social change.
Resilience, bravery, and joy lie at the center of this timeless story about fighting for justice against all odds."
Tantalizing taste:
"I would finish what Martin and the movement started. I decided to continue with the march in Memphis.
[There,] I spoke without notes, from the heart. I challenged the crowds to 'see that Martin's spirit never dies, and that we will go forward from this experience.'"
And something more: The book ends with these words by Coretta Scott King: "I want people to know that I was committed to leaving an eternal flame, built on love, that would never be extinguished. Love is not a program, not a political party, not a race. It is a promise with a power all its own. The contributions of Martin and me, and of those behind and before us, are the greatest witnesses I can imagine to the power of love in action.
The Dream is a work that is very much in progress. I am counting on the next generation."
- Feb 21, 2024
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Christy Ottaviano Books
(Little, Brown and Company)
(pub.1.2.2024)
48 pages
Ages 5 - 9
Author: Dinah Johnson
Illustrator: Jerry Jordan
Character: Ida B. Wells
Overview:
" Ida B. Wells grew up during a time when women did not have the right to vote. But Ida aspired for equality; she had learned from her parents to forge a life through hope and bravery, so she worked tirelessly to fight for an America that was fair to everyone regardless of race and gender. Her courageous activism made her one of the most influential civil rights leaders in American history. Here is Ida’s story with a specific spotlight on her fearless role in the Women’s March of 1913."
Tantalizing taste:
"Ever since she was a young woman, Ida had always done the right thing. The right thing now was not to follow the wishes of these white women who didn't care if she and other Black women got the vote.
The right thing now was for Ida to follow her heart and mind. She worked her way through the crowds of people along the path of the parade."
And something more: In A Note From The Author, Dinah Johnson explains that Ida B. Wells' "many invaluable contributions to society were celebrated in 1990 when the US Postal Service issued the Ida B. Wells commemorative stamp. More than a century after the Women's March of 1913, her story is as important and inspiring as ever."
- Feb 4, 2024
World Cycling Champion
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Candlewick Press
(pub. 9.12.2023)
48 pages
Ages 7-10
Author: Charles R Smith Jr.
and Illustrator: Leo Espinosa
Character: Marshall "Major" Taylor
Overview:
" One hundred years ago, one of the most popular spectator sports was bicycle racing, and the man to beat was Marshall 'Major' Taylor, who set records in his teens and won his first world championship by age twenty.
The first African American world champion in cycling and the second Black athlete to win a world championship in any sport, Major Taylor faced down challenge after challenge, not least the grueling Six-Day Race, a test of speed, strength, and endurance."
Tantalizing taste:
"When the other racers saw
the color of your face,
they taunted you
and threatened you
to drive you from the race.
But you pedaled on, Major,
and you didn't quit,
and when the rain came
only you finished it.
So keep riding, Major,
keep riding, don't quit.
Now, just like then,
keep pedaling, finish it."
And something more: Charles R Smith Jr. , in the Author's Note explains that "As a pro, Major won races and set countless records along the way. Many of the white racers tried to hurt him on the track due to his skin color, but Marshall adopted racing tactics to avoid harm and emerge victorious. He would stay at the back until the last lap, then put on a quick burst of speed to sprint ahead for the victory. This racing style made him a fan favorite."
