Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (edition 2007)

This book chronicles Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and the many accomplishments he made during the civil rights movement. It is a great book to use with young children because it uses a language that is easy to read and has many photographs, so they can picture what things looked like in the past.

A powerful portrayal of King's life, beautifully delivered, for even the youngest elementary students. The text and Bryan Collier's collage-style illustrations complement each other wonderfully. ( )

This multiple-award winning biography provides an introduction for kids to learn about of Martin Luther King, Jr. From Dr. King's youth, he looked up to his preacher father and vowed one day to "get big words, too." The author shares his words, combining them with her own text to tell his life story. In concluding, the author relates how he was killed, but points out that "His big words are alive for us today." A chronology and bibliography provide additional resources for older readers.

Reading level: Ages 5 and up ( )

Summary: The author uses her words and the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to tell the story of his life. It talks about King's big words "I had a dream" whose dream changed America.
Personal Reaction: This book shows how King never gave up on his dream and how he fought, not with violence, for civil rights of many people. It was simple reading from being a little boy to a man. I loved the illustrations; they were portray his life and what trials he and others went through.
Classroom Extension Ideas: Show pictures and read more about him on Martin Luther King Day. ( )

This is a powerful book. I really enjoyed the way it was written and the last two lines in particular. (Don't worry, I won't give them away!) It clearly depicts Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and his impact on the world. I would use this in a unit on civil rights and civil disobedience. It is a poignant tale that gives students a way to relate to a great leader of history. Reading level: Grade 2.5 ( )