Children's Book Express
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
by Doreen Rappaport and Bryan Collier
Summary
This picture-book biography is an excellent and accessible introduction for young readers to learn about one of the world’s most influential leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Doreen Rappaport weaves the immortal words of Dr. King into a captivating narrative to tell the story of his life. With stunning art by acclaimed illustrator Bryan Collier, Martin’s Big Words is an unforgettable portrait of a man whose dream changed America—and the world—forever.
Review
Hazel Rochman (Booklist, Oct. 1, 2001 (Vol. 98, No. 3))
Remember if I am stopped, this movement will not be stopped, because God is with this movement." Weaving in Dr. King's own "big words," this inspiring picture-book biography celebrates the great leader as preacher and politician. Rappaport's spare narrative captures the essentials of the man, themovement he led, and his policy of nonviolence.
Only in the case of Rosa Parks is the glimpse too simplistic, presenting her as an individual who refused to give up her seat on the bus, rather than as the political activist she was. Collier's collage art is glorious. Combining cut-paper, photographs, and watercolor he expresses his own Christian faith and King's power "to make many different things one." Stained glass windows are the dominant images, not only in themany church scenes, but also in the play of shape, light, and color in the realistic views of the city. With powerful art and pulsing words ("He walked with them and talked with them and sang with them and prayed with them"), this is a fine book to share and read aloud many times. Category: Books for theYoung--Nonfiction. 2001, Hyperion/Jump at the Sun, $15.99, $15.89. Ages 4-9. Starred Review
(PUBLISHER: Jump at the Sun/Hyperion ;Turnaround ([U.S.?]:) (London:), PUBLISHED: 2002.)
Lesson Plan Ideas:
Book Talk
Video Presentation of Book
This Teacher's guide contains a list of possible vocabulary words and pre and post disgussion questions. It also includes other activities such as creating a timeline of important events that happened in American history during Martin's life. This would be a great way to connect outside ideas and events in history to this book.
Citations: Summary from Google Books, Review from CLCD, Lesson Plan from Teachingbooks.net
Book Talk- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbvPxFVZw1Y
Video Presentation of Book- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBKP6v3rWSI