The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Junior was a complex man who led an inspirational life. The books below can help you share his beliefs and actions with your chidren.
(Note the grade levels assigned to each book come from Amazon. Mileage may vary.)
by Jan Colbert
This book is a compilation of letters written by Memphis school children. Some of these letters really pull at the heartstrings, while others are very cute and funny. The mix of photographs of the young letter writers superimposed on photographs from the 60's civil rights movement is a really clever idea. I can't help but think Dr. King would have loved receiving and reading these wonderful letters. The book, as well as some of the children reading their letters, were featured on Oprah Winfrey's show.
by Jean Marzollo, illustrated by J. Pinkney
A gentle story beautifully illustrated in a "scratchboard" style that tells the life and philosophy of Dr. King.
by Margaret Davidson
A nice children's biography on Dr. King filled with black and white photographs.
by Tonya Bolden, edited by Bob Adelman
A very nicely designed profile of Dr. King, filled with excellent photographs, quotes and dates.
by Ellen Levine, illustrated by Beth Peck
I really like the question and answer format this book employs to educate children about Dr. King. It's a really great way to learn.
by Christine King Farris, illustrated by Chris Soentpiet
A wonderful memoir by Dr. King's sister Christine. She recounts stories from their childhood and how Dr. King was deeply influenced by their father.
illustrated by Faith Ringgold
This is a beautiful book that illustrates Dr. King's life. Ringgold's gorgeous folk-art style illustrations provide a wonderful backdrop to her engaging text.
by Margaret Friskey
This is a very cute picture book that explains who Martin Luther King Jr. was, and why we celebrate his birthday.
by Richard Michelson, illustrated by Raul Colon
Flashlight Worthy
Recommending books so good, they'll keep you up past your bedtime. more...
About Leah Smith
Leah lives near Washington D.C. and is an obsessive list maker. She loves lists so much that she creates topical bibliographies -- for fun. She also collects volvelles, nutcrackers, unusual names and map hankies. She talks about books and many other things on her blog, Fig Newtons and Scotch.
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