Let the Children March

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - First Church of Christ - library, South Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: July 22, 2018

Review

This is a fictionalized telling of the Children’s March in Alabama during May 1963. Narration by a young girl participating in this first ever youth civil rights event, adds depth and scope to the story. This was just one social action intended to speak to the unfair treatment of African Americans during the 1960's in the USA. Readers who are unaware of the story will be impressed by the tenacity of the children and saddened by the horrible treatment they suffered. All readers will be pleased as all the children of Birmingham play together on the playground. However we know the struggle continues.

Clark-Robinson has captured the deep emotions of the time in her prose while Morrison incorporates feelings through facial expressions. Although sad and upsetting facts as well as illustrations are included the story needs to be shared with Americans of all ages. The end pages offer a timeline of the events leading up to and following this march. Back pages include factual remarks, sources and a bibliography. This is a historical fiction done well from cover to cover. Add this to public library collections, school shelves and offer copies to churches.

Consider for Cream.

Overall Book Score: excellent