Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson
AGE 6-9
Told from a child's point of view, this moving historical picture book focuses on a monumental moment in the civil rights movement: the Children's Crusade of 1963. Thousands of African American children and teens marched through the streets of Birmingham, Alabama to end segregation and to inspire change and hope for the future. Written by debut author Monica Clark-Robinson and illustrated by Coretta Scott King Honor-winning artist Frank Morrison.
Brief Description:
Under the leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King, children and teenagers march against segregation in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963.
Review Quotes:
Coretta Scott King Honor Award for Illustration2019
Kirkus' Best Picture Books of 2018
Chicago Public Library's Best of 2018
The Children's Book Review Best of nonfiction 2018★ "A powerful retrospective glimpse at a key event." --Kirkus, starred review★ "Much of the text will provoke questions and important conversations between children and adult readers. The experiences of segregation are sensitively depicted...A highly readable historical account which deserves a place on picture book and nonfiction shelves alike.- School Library Journal, starred review"This remarkable story remains relevant today as young readers think about their roles in the ongoing struggle for justice. Teachers who use this book might scaffold it with additional resources that teach about the intensive planning and organization that went into this and other activist campaigns." -- Booklist"The art throughout is a vibrant representation of the determination and courage of the civil rights movement. A nuanced account that could inspire the youngest readers to make a big difference." -- Horn Book"Clark-Robinson's stirring debut unfolds through the resolute voice of a (fictional) African-American girl participating in the 1963 Children's Crusade...The narrator's conclusion, "Our march made the difference," serves as a powerful reminder for today's readers about their own ability to fight for justice and equality." -- Publisher's Weekly"The text is taut and clear, making its greatest impact through its simple, even understated, specifics."-- BCCB"The book's message is clear and bracing: King understood that it's children who will lead the way, and the man's faith in the future is reassuring even now." -- The New York Times Book Review
Biographical Note:
Monica Clark-Robinson is a writer, part-time professor, and professional actor who has been writing for over fifteen years. This is her picture book debut.
Frank Morrison is the illustrator of more than twenty books, including a John Steptoe Award winner, Jazzy Miz Mozetta, and a Coretta Scott King Honor book, Little Melba and Her Big Trombone.
Publisher Marketing:
Coretta Scott King Honor Award for Illustration2019I couldn't play on the same playground as the white kids.
I couldn't go to their schools.
I couldn't drink from their water fountains.
There were so many things I couldn't do.
In 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, thousands of African American children volunteered to march for their civil rights after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak. They protested the laws that kept black people separate from white people. Facing fear, hate, and danger, these children used their voices to change the world. Frank Morrison's emotive oil-on-canvas paintings bring this historical event to life, while Monica Clark-Robinson's moving and poetic words document this remarkable time.
