Read this book in Granite’s OverDrive Digital Library
Written by Larry Dane Brimner
Winner of the 2018 Sibert award for non-fiction, this book tells the story of the 13 black and white activists who boarded buses from Washington D.C. to New Orleans in May, 1961. Their mission was to call attention to the Jim Crow way of life in the South. But what starts out as a peaceful protest turns violent as they travel deeper into the Southern United States. I wasn’t familiar with this chapter in civil rights history, but found it very interesting and moving. I loved the spacious layout, with large text and photographs, almost like a coffee table book. There’s a lot of information to digest, but it never feels overwhelming. The book alternates between white text on black background and black text on white background very effectively, with captivating black and white photos. It’s the primary-source photos that really drive the narrative. The writing is also excellent. A definite must-have for school libraries, suitable for 3rd – adult. This is a valuable resource for units on African-Americans, civil rights, discrimination, perseverance, tenacity, non-violent protests, and courage.
Review by Andrea LeBaron, Upland Terrace Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: 3rd Grade – Adult
Twelve Days in May: Freedom Ride 1961
Written by Larry Dane Brimner
Calkins Creek, an imprint of Highlights
111 pages
Release Date: November 7, 2017
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
