Words from MLK, Jr.

Picture Book: Martin’s Big Words

Author: Doreen Rappaport

Illustrator: Bryan Collier

Summary: This big picture book begins explaining the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. by considering his confusion when exposed to “White Only” signs. 

His mother reassures her son with, “You are as good as anyone.” At church, MLK, Jr. is exposed to big words, through his father’s preaching and the Bible. 

Martin hopes to learn these big words when he grows up. Some of his words (and big ideas) are highlighted in this book. As an adult, Martin studies Ghandi’s Indian movement and learns more big words about saying ‘love’ when others say ‘hate.’ 

When Rosa Park’s courage begins the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Martin walks and talks with those who protest. 

He is convinced that “love is the key to the world’s problems” even when he is threatened and his home is bombed. 

Other milestones include his speech at The March on Washington and winning The Nobel Peace Prize. 

The book spans to his death in Memphis.

Hanna’s Comments: I like this biography of MLK, Jr. because it’s big, so it’s easy to share. Many ideas are simple and it emphasizes the influence of church. 

The illustrations are also very striking. Important Dates in MLK’s life are listed in the back as well as Additional Books and Websites. There are many excellent books about Dr. King. Some are for older children, like the one I featured at PBT [here] and in my new eBook, 25 Books about Justice. Access a sample of that eBook via a tab above. Other books focus on specific events in his life such as Kadir Nelson’s illustration of King’s I Have a Dream speech. It’s recommended for age 7 and up. [Here's] Amazon’s page for purchasing that book.

Original Publisher & Date: Hyperion, 2001

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up

Formats other than Book: Audio

Scripture Connections: Let justice roll down like waters… (Amos 5:24); …do justice, love kindness… (Micah 6:8); greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13); let all you do be done in love (1 Corinthians 16:14); a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:18); or use scriptures that MLK used in his speeches

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children or teens in your faith family or at a private school or homeschool to emphasize how Martin’s faith inspired his courageous work for social justice.