Books that Address Diversity

Both of the books I have chosen, address diversity through the African American race. One looks at a family that travels down South during the time of segregation. The other book looks at Martin Luther King Jr., the famous man who ended segregation and fought for equal rights.


The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963

The Watsons Go to Birmingham is a historical fiction book written by the famous author, Christopher Paul Curtis. This story focuses on an African American family who lives in Flint, Michigan. The first part of the story introduces the reader to the members of the family, including Dad (Daniel), Mom (Wilona), Byron, Kenny, and Joetta. Wilona originally grew up in Alabama and has a southern accent which becomes thicker when she gets angry. Byron is the oldest child and has the reputation of being a juvenile delinquent because of all the trouble he gets into. Kenny, the middle child is the narrator of the book. He is very smart and this trait causes him to be harassed from classmates and his older brother. Joetta, the youngest child, is well-mannered and very religious. She loves her family and this is seen with her strong emotions portrayed throughout the story.

The family decides to take a trip to visit Grandma Sands in Birmingham, Alabama. The main reason for this trip is to deliver Byron to his grandmother's house so he will straighten up and learn how to correctly behave. Once they arrive, Byron's attitude changes very quickly and Kenny seems to assume the role of troublemaker.

One of the most critical events in the story is the bombing that occurred one Sunday morning while Joetta was at Sunday School. This event in the book truly represents the differences between the North and the South during a time period when African Americans were not viewed as equal. The Watson family goes to try and find their young daughter, but return home unsuccessful. To their disbelief, they find Joetta already back home, safe and sound. Joetta claims that Kenny was the one who called her away from the church, saving her life.

The entire family, including Byron leaves and returns home to Flint, Michigan. When they arrive home, Kenny seems to fall into a state of depression and spends most of his time behind the family couch. In the end, Byron helps Kenny out of his saddened state by supporting him. Because of this, Kenny promises to start living a normal life again!


my brother Martin

This book is a true reflection of Martin Luther King Jr.'s childhood days written by his sister, Christine King Farris. This story is different from most other books you will read about King because it shares some funny moments where Martin, his brother, and his sister participated in mischievous acts just like all other children. I think it is good for children to see this side of a famous hero in history and be able to connect with him.

The best part of the book is where Martin makes a promise to his mother. He told her, "I'm going to turn this world upside down. " He made this oath because he did not understand why he could no longer play with the "white boys" from across the street. This book shows children exactly how Martin Luther King Jr. followed that promise to make sure that Blacks and Whites had equal rights and could live together peacefully.