Do you get Martin Luther King, Jr. Day off? I am guessing your kids do. Do you know it is the first national holiday for a person that is not a president or Christopher Columbus? We celebrate it in thanks to the work Coretta Scott King did to make it a holiday to honor her husband. Come learn about the life and times of Coretta in today's book. It is Coretta's Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. This beautiful picture book biography is recommended for ages 7 to 10.
From the Publisher:
Who was Coretta Scott King? Her black-veiled image at the funeral of her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was moving and iconic. This book introduces readers to the woman behind the veil—a girl full of spunk and pluck, bravery and grit.“Corrie, you are a brave soldier. I don’t know what I would do without you.” —Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Much more than just a wife, Coretta Scott King was Martin’s partner in the fight for justice. It wasn’t always easy. From an early age, she stood strong against white violence toward her family in the South, and against discrimination as a music student in the North. Coretta found her voice as a classical singer, but she struggled mightily to speak out as an activist in the face of men who thought she should be seen and not heard. But she never wavered. When Martin died, it was Coretta who carried on the struggle, and preserved his legacy so that his voice would be heard by future generations. This important story, told in poetry and prose, is a riveting introduction to an important and instrumental figure in the history of activism and civil rights.
From Me:
This is a wonderful book honoring a strong woman. It shares the life of Coretta Scott King including some of her work and focus. The book goes back and forth between prose and poetry. It begins with her birth and takes us through to her death. At the end of the book there is a timeline, bibliography and the author's note that shares more details about Coretta Scott King. The last few pages also contain photographs of Coretta and Martin.
The book is a picture book, but it is definitely written for older picture book readers. I think the age range of 7 to 10 is a good one and also think older kids may find the book interesting especially with the switching between prose and poetry. It shares many details as well as a bit about the mindset of Coretta. I did not know about her passion about the Vietnam War and wanting peace. The book shares her own desires and sheds her in her own light rather than in the shadow of Martin. It shares her life and her life's work.
This book is perfect for any classroom or library. It is perfect for sharing about Black History as well as for a unit on biographies. I find it very interesting to read and think it would make an interesting discussion to have as to why the words go back and forth between poetry and prose. I hope you will check it out!
