Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Dream and You

Description: Through key events of Dr. King's life, from formative childhood moments to his days as a civil rights leader, a class of young students sees how he never lost hope in a future of equality and justice for all. Readers will learn from Dr. King's experiences, as the class follows in his footsteps. Full color.

Brief description: James Ransome is the illustrator of more than forty books and the winner of numerous awards. His work is part of both public and private children's book art collections. He teaches at Syracuse University and lives in Rhinebeck, NY, with his wife, writer Lesa Cline Ransome, and their children.

Review Quotes:

"While the book is accessible as an inspiring primer on social justice and taking action, it also challenges more sophisticated readers to make connections between the art, the text, Dr. King's life, the civil rights movement at large, and the continuing struggle to affect change . . .This book is sure to spark discussion and empower readers of all ages." --Starred review, School Library Journal

"Thoughtful paintings of moving scenes are paired with brief, motivational reflections that evoke all the sentiment and fervor of the American civil rights movement." --Foreword Review

"The book manages to make essential lessons in civic responsibility accessible to the very young reader." --Booklist

"The historical scenes, painted in Ransome's signature thick, saturated style, are infused with a powerful sense of narrative." --Publishers Weekly

"The use of rich, realistic paintings with pencil detailing for King's life contrasts with the brighter, simpler drawings for the contemporary children, giving a physical reminder that his work is ongoing." --School Library Connection

"Bold, honest, informative, and unforgettable." --starred review, Kirkus Reviews on VOICE OF FREEDOM: FRANNIE LOU HAMER

"Told in the first person from Hamer's own perspective, this lyrical text in verse emphasizes the activist's perseverance and courage, as she let her booming voice be heard." --starred review, School Library Journal on VOICE OF FREEDOM: FRANNIE LOU HAMER

"Caldecott Honor winner Weatherford has rendered Hamer's voice so precisely that it is like sitting at her knee as she tells her story." --starred review, Bookist on VOICE OF FREEDOM: FRANNIE LOU HAMER

"Visceral, intimate and plainly told, this story is sure to move young children." --The New York Times Book Review on WORDS SET ME FREE

"Ransome's acrylic and oil paintings combine striking naturalism with a palette of inky greens and blues." --starred review, Publishers Weekly on WORDS SET ME FREE