Martin's Big Words

January 12, 2011

"You are as good as anyone."

"Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that."

"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’s hard to explain the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. to young children. Martin’s Big Words is author Doreen Rappaport’s attempt, a  tribute to the slain leader’s work, beliefs, and sacrifice. It’s a picture book that succeeds admirably in describing the conditions and events that motivated King to dedicate his life to the struggle for civil rights. Bryan Collier’s  illustrations are sober and reverent, clearly stating without words through repeated insertions of the United States flag that Martin’s fight was one for rights to which all Americans are entitled. The pictures may seem dark at first, but they only emphasize the lighter illustrations, and of course, the importance of Dr. King’s words. Martin’s Big Words can be a quiet family read or a great discussion-starter in classrooms.

"Sooner or later, all the people of the world will have to discover a way to live together."

I vote for "sooner".

Thanks for reading.

Geri H.
Blue Ridge Branch