Friday, June 3, 2011

Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins written by Carole Boston Weatherford illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue

  • North Carolina AAUW Award for Juvenile Literature
  • Bank Street College Best Children's Books
  • Capitol Choices: Notable Books for Children
  • Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
Freedom on the Menu tells the story of four men who used the simple act of sitting to convey a powerful message in a turbulent time in history.  The four men knew the many risks and implications of their actions but felt it was necessary to stand up for equal rights.  The book was written from the perspective of a young African-American girl with older siblings that involved themselves in the protests.  Many students will be able to connect with the character and the enhancement of the text with the paintings makes the book enjoyable for a vast span of reading levels.  This book will generate discussions about ethics, standing up for your beliefs and could be used as the foundation for learning about debates.  Controversial issues need to be discussed in elementary schools, especially if the issue is a turning point in history.  Discussion of controversial issues create an outlet for students to develop and express their opinions as well as respect the opinions of others.

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