What do you think?
Rate this book
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Barnes & Noble Review
Acclaimed author Doreen Rappaport and Coretta Scott King Award winner Bryan Collier, who previously collaborated on Freedom River , have pooled their talents yet again in a stunning tribute to civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. An extraordinary picture-book biography, Martin's Big Words consists of Rappaport's own words interwoven with quotes from Dr. King...all powerfully brought to life by Collier's striking, glorious art.
Rappaport's spare, gripping text and Collier's distinctive collage-and-watercolor illustrations depict King's life journey with reverence and dignity -- beginning with his childhood experience of seeing "White Only" signs throughout his hometown, presenting his efforts as a civil rights crusader, and ending abruptly with his assassination. The front cover of the book immediately conveys King's power and spiritual strength, consisting entirely of a lifelike portrait of him -- the title and the author's and illustrator's names are relegated to the back cover. As Collier says in his illustrator's note, he "tried to push [the imagery] to an emotional level that allows the reader to bring his or her own experience to it, without actually losing the intensity or the intention of the story." His technique is utterly effective.
By using simple, direct language -- much of it King's -- the text offers young readers an accessible yet profound introduction to King's legacy. It explains that as a child, he listened to his minister father's "big words" and vowed to inspire others with such words when he grew up. The book's final sentence: "His big words are alive for us today," testifies to King's success -- and to the timeless importance of this great leader's ideals. As further inspiration for interested readers, Martin's Big Words includes a list of significant dates as well as a bibliography of resources for them to explore. (Jamie Levine)
Acclaimed author Doreen Rappaport and Coretta Scott King Award winner Bryan Collier, who previously collaborated on Freedom River , have pooled their talents yet again in a stunning tribute to civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. An extraordinary picture-book biography, Martin's Big Words consists of Rappaport's own words interwoven with quotes from Dr. King...all powerfully brought to life by Collier's striking, glorious art.
Rappaport's spare, gripping text and Collier's distinctive collage-and-watercolor illustrations depict King's life journey with reverence and dignity -- beginning with his childhood experience of seeing "White Only" signs throughout his hometown, presenting his efforts as a civil rights crusader, and ending abruptly with his assassination. The front cover of the book immediately conveys King's power and spiritual strength, consisting entirely of a lifelike portrait of him -- the title and the author's and illustrator's names are relegated to the back cover. As Collier says in his illustrator's note, he "tried to push [the imagery] to an emotional level that allows the reader to bring his or her own experience to it, without actually losing the intensity or the intention of the story." His technique is utterly effective.
By using simple, direct language -- much of it King's -- the text offers young readers an accessible yet profound introduction to King's legacy. It explains that as a child, he listened to his minister father's "big words" and vowed to inspire others with such words when he grew up. The book's final sentence: "His big words are alive for us today," testifies to King's success -- and to the timeless importance of this great leader's ideals. As further inspiration for interested readers, Martin's Big Words includes a list of significant dates as well as a bibliography of resources for them to explore. (Jamie Levine)
40 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2001
About the author
Doreen Rappaport
56 books76 followersDoreen Rappaport has written many books of fiction and nonfiction for young readers, specializing in thoroughly researched multicultural history, historical fiction, retellings of folktales and myths, and stories of those she calls the "not-yet-celebrated." Among her recent books is Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., illustrated by Bryan Collier, which received a Caldecott Honor Award and a Coretta Scott King Honor Award for illustration. Doreen Rappaport divides her time between New York City and a rural village in upstate New York.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,339 reviews
January 22, 2019
"Sooner or later, all the people of the world will have to discover a way to live together in peace."
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr., written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier, who previously collaborated on Freedom River, is part of the Big Words series of picture books by Doreen Rappaport. Think you have read more than enough about Dr. King? Well, this book stands out among the hundreds written: Recipient of the Jane Addams Children's Book Award, Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Honor, and New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book, it is really special, featuring an artistic approach Collier likened to making stained glass windows.
Some people claim we live in "post-racial times." I disagree. There's as much racist talk and acts as ever. Maybe it's time to make sure we know who this (murdered) (non-violent) leader was all about.
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr., written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier, who previously collaborated on Freedom River, is part of the Big Words series of picture books by Doreen Rappaport. Think you have read more than enough about Dr. King? Well, this book stands out among the hundreds written: Recipient of the Jane Addams Children's Book Award, Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Honor, and New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book, it is really special, featuring an artistic approach Collier likened to making stained glass windows.
Some people claim we live in "post-racial times." I disagree. There's as much racist talk and acts as ever. Maybe it's time to make sure we know who this (murdered) (non-violent) leader was all about.
March 6, 2021
A picture book biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier.
This is my first audio picture book. Is that an oxymoron?
Anyways, the book narrated by Michael Clarke Duncan is great!!! I rated a four (4) because this version lacks illustrations.
Growing up a young Martin saw this sign all over his town, “Whites Only.” He did not understand why black people like him were excluded and unwanted. His mother told him, “you are as good as anyone.”
Martin liked going to church where his father was the minister. He like singing and listening to his father preach. He liked the big words his father used and wanted to use big words, too. So when Martin grew up he became a minister, like his father.
He learned about Mahatma Gandhi and his nonviolent fight in India. Martin decided that his fight should be a nonviolent fight. Over the years he was involved in many demonstrations and marches for civil rights and other social issues. When the black people of Montgomery Alabama decided to boycott buses he walked with them. Martin walked in the March on Washington in 1963 and later gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
Because of Martin’s concern and support for all people and his use of nonviolence protest to accomplish his goals he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
Martin’s last march was in 1968 when he went to Memphis to support the garbage collector’s strike. Martin was killed in Memphis, Tennessee.
This book is for children ages 4 to 8.
Black History Month Project - 2021
It was a last minute decision to do a project for Black History Month, 2021. I decided to read and review picture book biographies because they were readily available and quick reads. Also, I thought I would learn something in the process, and I did. Hopefully, I am able to share some history that others may not have known.
I selected one for each day as follows:
Martin Luther King, Jr. - Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Ruby Bridges - The Story of Ruby Bridges
Thurgood Marshall - Thurgood
Florence Mills - Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Josephine Baker - Jazz Age Josephine
Martin Luther King, Jr. - I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
Gordon Parks - Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America
George Washington Carter - George Washington Carter - n the Garden with Dr. Carver
Gwendolyn Brooks - Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks
Malcolm X - Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X
John Lewis - Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis
Shirley Chisholm - Shirley Chisholm is a Verb!
Arturo Alfonso Scchomburg - Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library
Jackie Robinson - I am Jackie Robinson
Billie Holiday - Strange Fruit
Aretha Franklin - A Voice Named Aretha
James Lafayette - A Spy Called James
Leontyne Price - Leontyne Price: Voice of a Century
Rosa Parks - I Am Rosa Parks
Frederick Douglass - Bread for Words: A Frederick Douglass Story
Matthew Henson - I, Matthew Henson: Polar Explorer
Harriet Tubman - A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman
Sojourner Truth - Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride
Benjamin Banneker - Dear Benjamin Banneker
Kamala Harris - Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice
Ida B. Wells - Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells: The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist
Carter G. Woodson - Carter Reads the Newspaper
Barack Obama - Barack Obama: Son of Promise, Child of Hope
This is my first audio picture book. Is that an oxymoron?
Anyways, the book narrated by Michael Clarke Duncan is great!!! I rated a four (4) because this version lacks illustrations.
Growing up a young Martin saw this sign all over his town, “Whites Only.” He did not understand why black people like him were excluded and unwanted. His mother told him, “you are as good as anyone.”
Martin liked going to church where his father was the minister. He like singing and listening to his father preach. He liked the big words his father used and wanted to use big words, too. So when Martin grew up he became a minister, like his father.
He learned about Mahatma Gandhi and his nonviolent fight in India. Martin decided that his fight should be a nonviolent fight. Over the years he was involved in many demonstrations and marches for civil rights and other social issues. When the black people of Montgomery Alabama decided to boycott buses he walked with them. Martin walked in the March on Washington in 1963 and later gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
Because of Martin’s concern and support for all people and his use of nonviolence protest to accomplish his goals he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
Martin’s last march was in 1968 when he went to Memphis to support the garbage collector’s strike. Martin was killed in Memphis, Tennessee.
This book is for children ages 4 to 8.
Black History Month Project - 2021
It was a last minute decision to do a project for Black History Month, 2021. I decided to read and review picture book biographies because they were readily available and quick reads. Also, I thought I would learn something in the process, and I did. Hopefully, I am able to share some history that others may not have known.
I selected one for each day as follows:
Martin Luther King, Jr. - Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Ruby Bridges - The Story of Ruby Bridges
Thurgood Marshall - Thurgood
Florence Mills - Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Josephine Baker - Jazz Age Josephine
Martin Luther King, Jr. - I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
Gordon Parks - Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America
George Washington Carter - George Washington Carter - n the Garden with Dr. Carver
Gwendolyn Brooks - Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks
Malcolm X - Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X
John Lewis - Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis
Shirley Chisholm - Shirley Chisholm is a Verb!
Arturo Alfonso Scchomburg - Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library
Jackie Robinson - I am Jackie Robinson
Billie Holiday - Strange Fruit
Aretha Franklin - A Voice Named Aretha
James Lafayette - A Spy Called James
Leontyne Price - Leontyne Price: Voice of a Century
Rosa Parks - I Am Rosa Parks
Frederick Douglass - Bread for Words: A Frederick Douglass Story
Matthew Henson - I, Matthew Henson: Polar Explorer
Harriet Tubman - A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman
Sojourner Truth - Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride
Benjamin Banneker - Dear Benjamin Banneker
Kamala Harris - Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice
Ida B. Wells - Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells: The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist
Carter G. Woodson - Carter Reads the Newspaper
Barack Obama - Barack Obama: Son of Promise, Child of Hope
January 11, 2018
This is a great book for young kids to learn about Martin Luther King, Jr. Bryan Collier's art is interesting. He talks about trying to make it look like stained glass windows. I think it works here.
The book lets children into his world. The kids were drawn into this book. They couldn't believe he was shot. That brought up a lot of questions. This book handles it well, it is very simply told and it says simply "he died."
This book won the Caldecott for 2002 and I feel they made a good decision this year. This was a powerful man and you can feel that in these pages. He really inspired peace while standing up for yourself and that is a message I think we all need today. Lovely book.
The book lets children into his world. The kids were drawn into this book. They couldn't believe he was shot. That brought up a lot of questions. This book handles it well, it is very simply told and it says simply "he died."
This book won the Caldecott for 2002 and I feel they made a good decision this year. This was a powerful man and you can feel that in these pages. He really inspired peace while standing up for yourself and that is a message I think we all need today. Lovely book.
February 16, 2022
My daughter picked this out at the library after hearing it read to her at school. One of the best picture books I’ve seen about Martin Luther King Jr. The illustrations were amazing and so was the writing. Audio was also very good. Would definitely recommend to elementary kids.
March 21, 2014
When I was a child, I always wanted to learn more about the life and death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while at the same time, I wanted to see a picture book for children that details Dr. Martin Luther King Junior’s life in an uplifting way. Well, I just found such a picture book detailing Martin Luther King Junior’s life and it is called “Martin’s Big Words.” “Martin’s Big Words” is written by Doreen Rappaport along with illustrations by Bryan Collier and has won many awards including the Caldecott Honor book award, the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book and the Coretta Scott King Honor book award. This book details the life and death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a picture book format and is easily one of the most inspirational pictures books ever created!
When I saw that this book won two honors and a New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book, I was so intrigued because I had not seen a book win so many awards since Audrey Wood’s “The Napping House” and I think that this book richly deserves the awards it had won. Doreen Rappaport has done an excellent job at detailing the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and has indeed done her research on his life as there is a list of events that happened during Martin Luther King Junior’s life at the end of the book that I think will definitely help children know about the various events that happened during Martin Luther King Junior’s life. Doreen Rappaport makes this book extremely effective by using large and bold texts to describe various phrases that Martin Luther King Jr. used during his life such as he was a child, he uses the phrase “When I grow up, I’m going to get big words too” and the phrase is in blue, large and bold letters, which I think is effective in describing the various phrases that Martin used during his life to inspire the effects he had on America. Bryan Collier’s illustrations are extremely beautiful and effective, especially of the images of Martin Luther King Jr. speaking inside the church as you can see the stained glass windows at the background and they look extremely realistic and colorful. Also, Bryan Collier has done an excellent job at creating a dramatic atmosphere to the characters, especially of the image of Martin Luther King Jr. preaching in church and you can see the white light glow on him, which might indicate that he is angel sent to Earth as the light glow on him in an extremely effective way.
“Martin’s Big Words” is a true masterpiece on describing the life of Martin Luther King Jr. through the eyes of children and many children will definitely enjoy the book immensely. I would recommend this book to children ages five and up since smaller children might be a bit upset at the racism themes displayed in this book, even though this book is telling the audience about the trials that Martin faces during his life.
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
When I saw that this book won two honors and a New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book, I was so intrigued because I had not seen a book win so many awards since Audrey Wood’s “The Napping House” and I think that this book richly deserves the awards it had won. Doreen Rappaport has done an excellent job at detailing the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and has indeed done her research on his life as there is a list of events that happened during Martin Luther King Junior’s life at the end of the book that I think will definitely help children know about the various events that happened during Martin Luther King Junior’s life. Doreen Rappaport makes this book extremely effective by using large and bold texts to describe various phrases that Martin Luther King Jr. used during his life such as he was a child, he uses the phrase “When I grow up, I’m going to get big words too” and the phrase is in blue, large and bold letters, which I think is effective in describing the various phrases that Martin used during his life to inspire the effects he had on America. Bryan Collier’s illustrations are extremely beautiful and effective, especially of the images of Martin Luther King Jr. speaking inside the church as you can see the stained glass windows at the background and they look extremely realistic and colorful. Also, Bryan Collier has done an excellent job at creating a dramatic atmosphere to the characters, especially of the image of Martin Luther King Jr. preaching in church and you can see the white light glow on him, which might indicate that he is angel sent to Earth as the light glow on him in an extremely effective way.
“Martin’s Big Words” is a true masterpiece on describing the life of Martin Luther King Jr. through the eyes of children and many children will definitely enjoy the book immensely. I would recommend this book to children ages five and up since smaller children might be a bit upset at the racism themes displayed in this book, even though this book is telling the audience about the trials that Martin faces during his life.
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
February 5, 2011
Oh, I had trepidation about reading this book because of some comments made over at the Children's Books group. (This book is one of six books selected for February’s Picture Books Club; the month’s theme is Black History Month.) It just goes to show that we’re all going to have different reactions to the same book.
I need not have worried. I thought this was a nearly perfect book for its aim; I think.
Outstanding illustrations done in collage, a form I admire and enjoy.
The book covers Martin Luther King Jr.'s life from his boyhood to his assassination. It shows some of what shaped his formative years and how central he was in the fight for civil rights. Yet, it’s told in a cogent way and in a manner appropriate for children. There are short lines about different parts of his life and these are interspersed with some of his famous quotes. There is an important dates list and list of books and web sites in the back of the book and author’s and illustrator’s notes in the front of the book.
The whole recurring mention in this book of Martin’s big words, and big deeds, is very inspiring.
What seemed incredibly peculiar to me is that the title/subtitle (Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.) appears on the book’s title page, and the title alone (Martin’s Big Words) does appear on the book’s spine, but inexplicably neither show on the book’s cover. My hardcover edition shows 3 award badges but other than that shows only a large illustration of King’s face. The back cover of the book does have the full title and names of the author and illustrator, but I didn’t immediately see that. I guess they (publisher? book’s creators?) wanted his face to jump out at those who picked up the book, but I’d have preferred the typical information given on the front cover.
I need not have worried. I thought this was a nearly perfect book for its aim; I think.
Outstanding illustrations done in collage, a form I admire and enjoy.
The book covers Martin Luther King Jr.'s life from his boyhood to his assassination. It shows some of what shaped his formative years and how central he was in the fight for civil rights. Yet, it’s told in a cogent way and in a manner appropriate for children. There are short lines about different parts of his life and these are interspersed with some of his famous quotes. There is an important dates list and list of books and web sites in the back of the book and author’s and illustrator’s notes in the front of the book.
The whole recurring mention in this book of Martin’s big words, and big deeds, is very inspiring.
What seemed incredibly peculiar to me is that the title/subtitle (Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.) appears on the book’s title page, and the title alone (Martin’s Big Words) does appear on the book’s spine, but inexplicably neither show on the book’s cover. My hardcover edition shows 3 award badges but other than that shows only a large illustration of King’s face. The back cover of the book does have the full title and names of the author and illustrator, but I didn’t immediately see that. I guess they (publisher? book’s creators?) wanted his face to jump out at those who picked up the book, but I’d have preferred the typical information given on the front cover.
October 8, 2020
While I have in many ways very much appreciated author Doreen Rappaport's narrative (her own printed words about Martin Luther King Junior's big and yes oh so massively important and powerful utterances), I have also and personally always felt more than a bit uncomfortable with some of the textual (the authorial) assertions presented in Martin's Big Words (well actually more with what has in my opinion been seemingly rather willfully ignored by Ms. Rappaport). Because it is more than well known that Martin Luther King Junior always always preached and celebrated inclusiveness and tolerance towards everyone, towards ALL people and that he actually also had quite a bit of support from non African Americans and especially from younger members of the clergy, and that therefore NOT ALL white clergymen (NOT ALL ministers) were as Doreen Rappaport seems to narrationally and rather unilaterally if not strangely GLIBLY claim against the Civil Rights Movement and millions unilaterally demanding that Martin Luther King Junior's marches and protests stop (and these younger ministers and pastors in fact were also very much risking their careers, even their lives and the lives of friends and family members by openly supporting Martin Luther King Junior, something that the latter also always happily and gladly acknowledged).
Therefore, it is more than a bit sadly annoying and frustrating for me on a personal level that Doreen Rappaport simply seems to totally and utterly ignore this important historical point of truth in Martin's Big Words. And while I do NOT actually think the fact that Martin Luther King Junior was also supported by many non African Americans, but in particular by many younger members of the clergy, should necessarily be included within the text proper of Martin's Big Words, as I do believe that the narrative needs to be completely, wholly African American point of view centred (as it indeed has been conceptualised and penned), the author should absolutely have added said to and for me essential historical information as a post narrative note (perhaps on the same pages as the time line and the excellent suggestions for further reading). And really, that Doreen Rappaport simply chooses to utterly and completely leave out that Martin Luther King Junior was NOT universally despised by all non African Americans and that while many members of the clergy were indeed highly critical of Martin Luther King Junior, there was also much internal, often unofficial but still often palpable support of him and his philosophy, his demands for civil rights (and especially in the more modern thinking, increasingly socially conscious churches across in particular the northern USA), this is in my opinion both a serious lack and really an almost unacceptable omission (as it very much goes against both Martin Luther King Junior's life and his entire legacy of inclusiveness and global tolerance).
Now with regard to Byan Collier's Caldecott Honour winning accompanying illustrations, they are most definitely visually stunning (and although in and of themselves, as artwork, they would probably not rank amongst my personal favourites, they do very much provide a glowing and realistic complement to Doreen Rappaport's presented text, both mirroring and at times even expanding on it). Three stars for Martin's Big Words, but yes, if Ms. Rappaport had added a to and for me necessary author's note stating and explaining that even though she has chosen to ONLY focus on the massive African American support of Martin Luther King Junior's "big" words and his philosophy of emancipation and tolerance, on how they inspired and fuelled the Civil Rights Movement even in the face of much daunting official and unofficial anger and condemnation, she is in fact also aware that her narrative is a bit if not even rather majorly one-sided, and that Martin Luther King Junior and the Civil Rights Movement were also increasingly being supported by especially younger White Americans, including younger pastors and ministers, I probably would be giving Martin's Big Words a four and perhaps even a five star ranking.
Therefore, it is more than a bit sadly annoying and frustrating for me on a personal level that Doreen Rappaport simply seems to totally and utterly ignore this important historical point of truth in Martin's Big Words. And while I do NOT actually think the fact that Martin Luther King Junior was also supported by many non African Americans, but in particular by many younger members of the clergy, should necessarily be included within the text proper of Martin's Big Words, as I do believe that the narrative needs to be completely, wholly African American point of view centred (as it indeed has been conceptualised and penned), the author should absolutely have added said to and for me essential historical information as a post narrative note (perhaps on the same pages as the time line and the excellent suggestions for further reading). And really, that Doreen Rappaport simply chooses to utterly and completely leave out that Martin Luther King Junior was NOT universally despised by all non African Americans and that while many members of the clergy were indeed highly critical of Martin Luther King Junior, there was also much internal, often unofficial but still often palpable support of him and his philosophy, his demands for civil rights (and especially in the more modern thinking, increasingly socially conscious churches across in particular the northern USA), this is in my opinion both a serious lack and really an almost unacceptable omission (as it very much goes against both Martin Luther King Junior's life and his entire legacy of inclusiveness and global tolerance).
Now with regard to Byan Collier's Caldecott Honour winning accompanying illustrations, they are most definitely visually stunning (and although in and of themselves, as artwork, they would probably not rank amongst my personal favourites, they do very much provide a glowing and realistic complement to Doreen Rappaport's presented text, both mirroring and at times even expanding on it). Three stars for Martin's Big Words, but yes, if Ms. Rappaport had added a to and for me necessary author's note stating and explaining that even though she has chosen to ONLY focus on the massive African American support of Martin Luther King Junior's "big" words and his philosophy of emancipation and tolerance, on how they inspired and fuelled the Civil Rights Movement even in the face of much daunting official and unofficial anger and condemnation, she is in fact also aware that her narrative is a bit if not even rather majorly one-sided, and that Martin Luther King Junior and the Civil Rights Movement were also increasingly being supported by especially younger White Americans, including younger pastors and ministers, I probably would be giving Martin's Big Words a four and perhaps even a five star ranking.
Read
March 1, 2023My original review from many years ago is below. However, I am updating my review because I no longer feel I can recommend this book. Better books have come along on the subject since and I heartily agree with the views expressed by Abigail and Manybooks in their negative review of this book (I suggest you read their reviews, especially if you are considering sharing this book with children). I instead heartily recommend Child of the Civil Rights Movement and, for older kids, I think A Place to Land: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Speech That Inspired a Nation is superior to Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr..
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I found this introductory biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to be both beautiful, inspiring... and a little frustrating.
On the one hand, I loved how the author incorporated MLK's "big words" into the story--most pages including actual quotes; but at the same time sometimes it felt a bit disjointed narrative-wise. Also, the narrative is so sparse that it lacks depth and I felt some key aspects of MLK's life were not explored sufficiently, even for a picture book. And I appreciate the fact that this is suitable for younger children and it doesn't get really heavy/graphic regarding the issues.
Yet, on the other hand, I felt that it lacked a bit of resonance and power in the telling because so much was left out. That said, I thought the ending was really beautiful and strong, saying that his "big words" are left for all of us. I think this shows that we are left with the opportunity and power to continue making his dream a reality, and that even though MLK himself was killed, the ideals he stood for endure.
As for the artwork, I thought some of it was absolutely gorgeous and so powerful. I also thought some of the depictions of MLK were excellent (like the cover art) but a few times I thought he looked a bit stern in comparison to the way the text was portraying him. Still, overall I liked the artwork and appreciated the illustrator's notes. The idea and philosophy behind incorporating the stained glass images is lovely and I appreciate the symbolism, such as the four candles representing the school girls killed in the bombing and how their light shines on. Wonderful!
So, all in all, I think this book succeeds at what it is meant to be: an introduction to MLK, especially for younger children. But it really only scratches the surface and I'd be curious to read more picture book biographies on MLK as a comparison. (That said, the others at my local library look inferior to this one...)
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I found this introductory biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to be both beautiful, inspiring... and a little frustrating.
On the one hand, I loved how the author incorporated MLK's "big words" into the story--most pages including actual quotes; but at the same time sometimes it felt a bit disjointed narrative-wise. Also, the narrative is so sparse that it lacks depth and I felt some key aspects of MLK's life were not explored sufficiently, even for a picture book. And I appreciate the fact that this is suitable for younger children and it doesn't get really heavy/graphic regarding the issues.
Yet, on the other hand, I felt that it lacked a bit of resonance and power in the telling because so much was left out. That said, I thought the ending was really beautiful and strong, saying that his "big words" are left for all of us. I think this shows that we are left with the opportunity and power to continue making his dream a reality, and that even though MLK himself was killed, the ideals he stood for endure.
As for the artwork, I thought some of it was absolutely gorgeous and so powerful. I also thought some of the depictions of MLK were excellent (like the cover art) but a few times I thought he looked a bit stern in comparison to the way the text was portraying him. Still, overall I liked the artwork and appreciated the illustrator's notes. The idea and philosophy behind incorporating the stained glass images is lovely and I appreciate the symbolism, such as the four candles representing the school girls killed in the bombing and how their light shines on. Wonderful!
So, all in all, I think this book succeeds at what it is meant to be: an introduction to MLK, especially for younger children. But it really only scratches the surface and I'd be curious to read more picture book biographies on MLK as a comparison. (That said, the others at my local library look inferior to this one...)
December 26, 2016
I listened to this on overdrive and it was only about 15 minutes long, but the information that was shared was really nice. I enjoyed listening to this short story :)
January 16, 2017
Well, it's the perfect day to promote this meaningful and beautifully illustrated children's book. And, since we're just a few days out from Inauguration Day here in the U.S., I will use some of Martin's words in an attempt to inspire myself and whoever else is reading:
"Sooner or later, all the people of the world will have to discover a way to live together in peace."
Amen.
But, if we keep killing the most enlightened and inspired people amongst us, how will we ever do it?
"Sooner or later, all the people of the world will have to discover a way to live together in peace."
Amen.
But, if we keep killing the most enlightened and inspired people amongst us, how will we ever do it?
April 8, 2020
I have profoundly mixed feelings about this book. Feelings with which I have struggled, vacillating between a two and four star rating, alternately convinced that I was being petty, in my objections, and cowardly, in my reluctance to voice them. Martin's Big Words is, in so many ways, a lovely picture-book. Intended for younger children, it pairs Doreen Rappaport's brief narrative about the life of this great American hero with equally brief quotations from King's own speeches and writing. The accompanying collage and watercolor illustrations by Bryan Collier are simply gorgeous, well deserving of the Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Award that they won. I would like to say that this was the ideal picture-book introduction, for young children, to the life and philosophy of Martin Luther King, Jr. Unfortunately, I can't.
To understand why this book, and the way in which it portrays the Civil Rights Movement, from both a narrative and illustrative standpoint, bothers me so much, one needs to know a little bit about me. I am a white (or Euro-American) woman, raised by a progressive white man - a minister, who always described Rev. King as one of his great heroes. I grew up hearing the stories of my father's participation in the Civil Rights Movement, including the one in which he and many of his fellow seminarians, black and white, went south to join the great Selma to Montgomery Civil Rights March of 1965. They had a forty year reunion for all the CTS (Chicago Theological Seminary) students and faculty who marched, a few years back, and it turned out that it included almost the entire class! King's work, along with that of Mahatma Gandhi and the Rev. André Trocmé, had pride of place in my father's library, and I was keenly conscious, from an early age, that here was a man to be admired and emulated.
It feels almost churlish to argue with a book whose purpose is to promulgate the vision of Rev. King, when I agree so wholeheartedly with that vision, and have long admired the man himself. As it happens, my problem with Rappaport and Collier's book lies not in how they depict Martin Luther King, Jr., himself, but in how they depict the larger Civil Rights Struggle. The trouble begins when Rappaport writes: "In the next ten years, black Americans all over the South protested for equal rights. Martin walked with them and talked with them and prayed with them. White ministers told them to stop. Mayors and governors and police chiefs and judges ordered them to stop. But they kept on marching." All of which is true, of course. Black Americans did protest for equal rights, often showing great courage and determination, in the face of violent persecution. Martin Luther King was certainly there, constantly lending his support, his encouragement, and his spiritual guidance to those who needed it. And yes, many white authority figures, including ministers, were opposed to the changes that civil rights activists sought.
But that isn't the whole story, is it? In reality, many white Americans were also civil rights activists - and yes, a great many of them ministers or priests - often adding their voices, and their presence, to the struggle for justice. I'm not suggesting that it was their struggle, or that their experiences should somehow be paramount. Far from it! But they too are part of the story, and it strikes me as odd that Rappaport seems to be deliberately excluding them from that story. Equally disturbing is the way in which Collier's illustration, for the two-page spread which contains this passage, also works to exclude white activists. His artwork is clearly inspired by Steve Schapiro's famous photograph from the Selma to Montgomery march. This image, in which an American flag, as well as a mostly obscured United Nations flag, is carried by marchers on the long trek, shows a diverse group - most black, but a few white - trudging determinedly along. Every time I see it, I think of my father, and what he must have experienced and felt, walking along that same road. Was he in front of this particular group? Somewhere behind? Did he know anyone in this photograph? Did he meet them, in the course of the march? I've never thought to ask. My father isn't in this photograph, but he could have been. That is to say, he could have been in real life. But not in Rappaport's narrative, nor in Collier's art, which depicts the same scene, with all non-African-American marchers removed:
Now this is one two-page spread, and I imagine that some would argue that it isn't that important. I read an excellent review of Martin's Big Words which, although it agreed that the narrative and artistic choices made here were "odd," argued that there were already so many positive images of whites, in our children's books, that the absence of one in this book wasn't so important. I can't deny that there is some truth to this. Does it really matter that this single picture-book promotes the idea that blacks struggled alone, in their fight for equality, against universal white opposition, when the reality is so much more complicated and rich?
My answer to that question comes when I think of my father, lying in a hospital bed as I write this. If I had children, would I want to introduce them to the life and work of Martin Luther King, Jr. with a book that wrote their grandfather out of history? Would I want to use such a book to introduce any child to this important topic? Sadly, the answer has to be no. Beautiful and effective, in communicating its message, Martin's Big Words has significant flaws, and I would only recommend its use in conjunction with some other work on King, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Addendum: since writing the above review, back in 2011, I have had the chance to think about these issues further, and to consider my rating of this book, which originally stood at three stars - a compromise between the four stars I thought it deserved for its aesthetic qualities, and the two it deserved for its simplification of history. My father, mentioned above, has since passed away, but I remain immensely proud of his participation in this important moment in American history. I was reminded of this book recently, and of my mixed feelings about it, after watching a video online of a group discussion of race. The discussion took place in the UK, and concerned public perceptions in that country of Meghan Markle. One young participant, who was the sole African-American (or American of any kind) in the group, vociferously objected at one point to the idea that there were any white participants in the Civil Rights Movement here in the states, and nothing any of the other participants said could convince her she was mistaken. Watching her objections, I was struck by the oddity of the situation: here was the lone American in the room, having the least accurate knowledge of American history! When I considered why that might be, this book came floating up in my memory, and while there is simply no way of knowing whether this young lady ever encountered it, it certainly represents the kind of oversimplification that might, if reproduced in enough texts and images, create such an incorrect impression. Given that this is so, I realized that I simply couldn't dismiss Martin's Big Words as misguided, in this respect. It is, when taken together with other works of its kind, harmful. I have therefore reduced my star rating, with regret, from three to two.
To understand why this book, and the way in which it portrays the Civil Rights Movement, from both a narrative and illustrative standpoint, bothers me so much, one needs to know a little bit about me. I am a white (or Euro-American) woman, raised by a progressive white man - a minister, who always described Rev. King as one of his great heroes. I grew up hearing the stories of my father's participation in the Civil Rights Movement, including the one in which he and many of his fellow seminarians, black and white, went south to join the great Selma to Montgomery Civil Rights March of 1965. They had a forty year reunion for all the CTS (Chicago Theological Seminary) students and faculty who marched, a few years back, and it turned out that it included almost the entire class! King's work, along with that of Mahatma Gandhi and the Rev. André Trocmé, had pride of place in my father's library, and I was keenly conscious, from an early age, that here was a man to be admired and emulated.
It feels almost churlish to argue with a book whose purpose is to promulgate the vision of Rev. King, when I agree so wholeheartedly with that vision, and have long admired the man himself. As it happens, my problem with Rappaport and Collier's book lies not in how they depict Martin Luther King, Jr., himself, but in how they depict the larger Civil Rights Struggle. The trouble begins when Rappaport writes: "In the next ten years, black Americans all over the South protested for equal rights. Martin walked with them and talked with them and prayed with them. White ministers told them to stop. Mayors and governors and police chiefs and judges ordered them to stop. But they kept on marching." All of which is true, of course. Black Americans did protest for equal rights, often showing great courage and determination, in the face of violent persecution. Martin Luther King was certainly there, constantly lending his support, his encouragement, and his spiritual guidance to those who needed it. And yes, many white authority figures, including ministers, were opposed to the changes that civil rights activists sought.
But that isn't the whole story, is it? In reality, many white Americans were also civil rights activists - and yes, a great many of them ministers or priests - often adding their voices, and their presence, to the struggle for justice. I'm not suggesting that it was their struggle, or that their experiences should somehow be paramount. Far from it! But they too are part of the story, and it strikes me as odd that Rappaport seems to be deliberately excluding them from that story. Equally disturbing is the way in which Collier's illustration, for the two-page spread which contains this passage, also works to exclude white activists. His artwork is clearly inspired by Steve Schapiro's famous photograph from the Selma to Montgomery march. This image, in which an American flag, as well as a mostly obscured United Nations flag, is carried by marchers on the long trek, shows a diverse group - most black, but a few white - trudging determinedly along. Every time I see it, I think of my father, and what he must have experienced and felt, walking along that same road. Was he in front of this particular group? Somewhere behind? Did he know anyone in this photograph? Did he meet them, in the course of the march? I've never thought to ask. My father isn't in this photograph, but he could have been. That is to say, he could have been in real life. But not in Rappaport's narrative, nor in Collier's art, which depicts the same scene, with all non-African-American marchers removed:
Now this is one two-page spread, and I imagine that some would argue that it isn't that important. I read an excellent review of Martin's Big Words which, although it agreed that the narrative and artistic choices made here were "odd," argued that there were already so many positive images of whites, in our children's books, that the absence of one in this book wasn't so important. I can't deny that there is some truth to this. Does it really matter that this single picture-book promotes the idea that blacks struggled alone, in their fight for equality, against universal white opposition, when the reality is so much more complicated and rich?
My answer to that question comes when I think of my father, lying in a hospital bed as I write this. If I had children, would I want to introduce them to the life and work of Martin Luther King, Jr. with a book that wrote their grandfather out of history? Would I want to use such a book to introduce any child to this important topic? Sadly, the answer has to be no. Beautiful and effective, in communicating its message, Martin's Big Words has significant flaws, and I would only recommend its use in conjunction with some other work on King, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Addendum: since writing the above review, back in 2011, I have had the chance to think about these issues further, and to consider my rating of this book, which originally stood at three stars - a compromise between the four stars I thought it deserved for its aesthetic qualities, and the two it deserved for its simplification of history. My father, mentioned above, has since passed away, but I remain immensely proud of his participation in this important moment in American history. I was reminded of this book recently, and of my mixed feelings about it, after watching a video online of a group discussion of race. The discussion took place in the UK, and concerned public perceptions in that country of Meghan Markle. One young participant, who was the sole African-American (or American of any kind) in the group, vociferously objected at one point to the idea that there were any white participants in the Civil Rights Movement here in the states, and nothing any of the other participants said could convince her she was mistaken. Watching her objections, I was struck by the oddity of the situation: here was the lone American in the room, having the least accurate knowledge of American history! When I considered why that might be, this book came floating up in my memory, and while there is simply no way of knowing whether this young lady ever encountered it, it certainly represents the kind of oversimplification that might, if reproduced in enough texts and images, create such an incorrect impression. Given that this is so, I realized that I simply couldn't dismiss Martin's Big Words as misguided, in this respect. It is, when taken together with other works of its kind, harmful. I have therefore reduced my star rating, with regret, from three to two.
February 10, 2011
I always appreciate added information in books. So, I found it wonderful to have important dates highlighted and additional MLK information added at the end of the book. After I read the book, I went back and read the author’s and Illustrator’s notes. It was interesting to find out their thoughts on how they approached creating this book. I did like the artwork although a tad on the dark side. I think Martin’s life would have been better depicted in light rather than dark, because he brought so much of it into the world.
All in all, I found it a fair introductory to MLK with much needed discussions from adults. I am not particularly fond of how it began to end. I just feel this book was written for a child and there may need to be the explanation of why he was shot. Not just that he was and he died. However the final words of the book are powerful. I know it can be difficult to place one person’s incredible life into a 32 page book. I think with what the artists had to work with they did well.
This book was a Picture Book Club read for the month of February found here: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/4...
All in all, I found it a fair introductory to MLK with much needed discussions from adults. I am not particularly fond of how it began to end. I just feel this book was written for a child and there may need to be the explanation of why he was shot. Not just that he was and he died. However the final words of the book are powerful. I know it can be difficult to place one person’s incredible life into a 32 page book. I think with what the artists had to work with they did well.
This book was a Picture Book Club read for the month of February found here: http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/4...
January 28, 2013
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr., recipient of the Jane Addams Children's Book Award, Caldecott Honor, and Coretta Scott King Honor, provides a balance between a retell of history and excerpts from his impacting speeches. The illustrations contain artistic medias of realistic paintings and collage, that gives the reader more insight on how powerful Martin's words were in piecing together the society that once existed. A must have to read aloud for elementary and secondary classrooms, not only for learning more about Martin's journey, but also as an opportunity to analyze his "big words" and the impact it still holds today.
July 8, 2013
This wonderful biography is an homage in words and pictures. Rappaport weaves together King’s own words with her brief text sharing King’s all-too-short life. As a young boy, Martin knew that he wanted to inspire others using “big words.” Collier’s watercolor and collage illustrations express King’s joy in life, solemn sense of purpose, and passionate beliefs.
August 11, 2017
This book is part of the Big Words series of picture books by Doreen Rappaport.
Of the three books that we read this year about Martin Luther King, Jr. in honor of his birthday, this one was by far my favorite. I have to echo the comments made by one reviewer that all the books seem to be written with the same script; but this one is just different enough to pique my interest.
The illustrations are wonderful and I love the way his words echo throughout the book. I felt his conviction and his hope pour out from the pages. I really liked this story and our girls did too.
My favorite quotes: "Love is the key to the problems of the world." and "Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that."
This book was featured as one of the selections for the February 2011 - Black History Month themed reads for the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
This book was also selected as one of the books for the February 2017- Caldecott Honors 1998-2002 discussion at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
Of the three books that we read this year about Martin Luther King, Jr. in honor of his birthday, this one was by far my favorite. I have to echo the comments made by one reviewer that all the books seem to be written with the same script; but this one is just different enough to pique my interest.
The illustrations are wonderful and I love the way his words echo throughout the book. I felt his conviction and his hope pour out from the pages. I really liked this story and our girls did too.
My favorite quotes: "Love is the key to the problems of the world." and "Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that."
This book was featured as one of the selections for the February 2011 - Black History Month themed reads for the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
This book was also selected as one of the books for the February 2017- Caldecott Honors 1998-2002 discussion at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads.
January 23, 2010
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is an excellent picture book for students of all ages, even though the book is intended for grades 1-3. I gave this book four stars (reallly liked it) mainly because of the unique format of the book. As opposed to just "telling" the story of Dr. King's life, Rappaport starts the story with Martin encountering the hurtful words WHITE ONLY and his mother's subsequent explanation that he is was "as good as anyone." The story of his life continues through the use of important words and phrases that coinceded with different parts of his life. Through the mixture of biography and quotes, the reader not only gets a sense of the person Dr. King was, but also the ideas that he developed, or that were developed because of him.
Students are familiar with Dr. King's most famous words, "I have a dream..." but this book captures other words and phrases of Dr. King that gives the reader a sense of how powerful word(s) can be. This book would be an excellent addition to any classroom library, not only because of the important story but also as a tool for students to discover the impact of a word or a quote on all people.
Students are familiar with Dr. King's most famous words, "I have a dream..." but this book captures other words and phrases of Dr. King that gives the reader a sense of how powerful word(s) can be. This book would be an excellent addition to any classroom library, not only because of the important story but also as a tool for students to discover the impact of a word or a quote on all people.
January 24, 2010
This picture book, recommended for readers 8-10 years of age and has received the Coretta Scott King Award, Caldecott Honor (2002), New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books (2001). This is a book that tells the story of MLK’s life and times. This narrative tells of MLK’s life and the Civil Rights Movement by weaving together the authors words and actual words spoken by MLK.
This book describes the Civil Rights Movement, inequality, and the life of MLK in a captivating and emotional way. The themes of “You are as good as anyone” and “Everyone can be great”, as well as inequality and death shine through. The illustrations are unique, colorful, and are done in the style of collage art. Overall, the book paints an accurate picture of MLK, a man who helped big changes occur in America and all over the world. Information about important dates surrounding the Civil Rights Movement and a list of additional books and websites to go to for more information also add to the book.
This book describes the Civil Rights Movement, inequality, and the life of MLK in a captivating and emotional way. The themes of “You are as good as anyone” and “Everyone can be great”, as well as inequality and death shine through. The illustrations are unique, colorful, and are done in the style of collage art. Overall, the book paints an accurate picture of MLK, a man who helped big changes occur in America and all over the world. Information about important dates surrounding the Civil Rights Movement and a list of additional books and websites to go to for more information also add to the book.
February 4, 2010
Martin's Big Words was written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier. Published in 2001 by Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Childre, it was a Cadecott Honor Book (2002), a Coretta Scott King Award Honor book (2002), and The New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children's Book for 2001. The illustrations in this book are amazing starting with the stain glass windows on the opening pages that reminds one of the Reverand Dr. Martin Luther King's roots. The text is also used to help tell the story and the powerful words of Dr. King. Sometimes large, sometimes in a different font, his message becomes more and more clear throughout the book.
In my classroom I would use this book while studying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is great for a read-aloud and discussion about Dr. King's ways. It could really be used for any great and could be a starting point for good conversation.
In my classroom I would use this book while studying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is great for a read-aloud and discussion about Dr. King's ways. It could really be used for any great and could be a starting point for good conversation.
June 3, 2012
I listened to this book as I read along was very moving. This Coretta Scott King Award, Caldecott Honor (2002), New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books (2001) would be a great picture book to use during February as we celebrate African Heritage Month by using the words of Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech carefully chosen illustrations captivating the reader of the inequalities of the life of most African Americans during the acidic Rights Movement and how the words of one man can lead to do many changes in our society. I like how it began with Martin as a little boy listening and being influenced by his father at the pulpitt, and moving onto his adulthood to how his influence had on us then and now. I believe we can use this book for all ages, the activities we do would just be in more depth.
September 3, 2013
I've been in education for 15 years, this is my first year as a principal. for the past 6 years I didn't have my own classroom or group of kids that I worked directly with.
I am soooooo excited to be with kids again! In the first week or so of school, I'll be going to each class and reading a book, and leaving it with the class. I got this one for the 5th graders, because it's beautiful and honors the intellectual capacity of this group of kids while tapping into their inate sense of justice.
A lot of books have been churned out about social equality, a relatively small amount of them have the high quality of illustrations and writing that this book does.
I am soooooo excited to be with kids again! In the first week or so of school, I'll be going to each class and reading a book, and leaving it with the class. I got this one for the 5th graders, because it's beautiful and honors the intellectual capacity of this group of kids while tapping into their inate sense of justice.
A lot of books have been churned out about social equality, a relatively small amount of them have the high quality of illustrations and writing that this book does.
February 14, 2008
I love this book! In the dozens of picture books about Martin Luther King Jr., this one stands out. I love the underlying message of the power of words, and the simplicity of the text underscores Martin’s message. The pictures, mixing collage and watercolor, add deeper layers to the story. The full page picture of the young African American girl in front of the American flag is at once inspiring and haunting. Both the author and the illustrator add a message at the beginning of the book explaining their inspiration and pointing out symbolism and metaphors that add to the written story.
January 22, 2019
I asked my son if he knew why he was off school this Monday. He did not. I asked him if he had learned about Martin Luther King in school. He said he had not. Now, maybe they did and he daydreamed through it or they'll cover it tomorrow but I was having none of that and hustled over to the library where they had a basket full of kids books on MLK and the librarian helped me pick the most perfect picture book for my 7 year old.
This is a brief history of the highlights of Dr. King's life along with some of his most touching and moving quotes accompanied by engaging and stunning illustrations. It wasn't too dark or deep for a small child but did not gloss over his story either. I feel so lucky to have found this book and been able to share it with my child.
This is a brief history of the highlights of Dr. King's life along with some of his most touching and moving quotes accompanied by engaging and stunning illustrations. It wasn't too dark or deep for a small child but did not gloss over his story either. I feel so lucky to have found this book and been able to share it with my child.
January 8, 2018
This review was originally written for The Baby Bookworm. Visit us for new picture books reviews daily!
Hello everyone! It’s Friday, so we are continuing our Black History Month series with today’s book, Martin’s Big Words: The Life Of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., written by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier.
This picture book biography of Dr. King uses the theme of his “big words,” i.e. his powerful writings and orations, to trace his story; from his roots as a pastor’s son growing up in the Jim Crow South, to a young activist advocating peaceful protest during the Montgomery bus boycott, to his being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, to his tragic death in Memphis. Throughout, excerpts of his writing and speeches are quoted to emphasize his message of justice, equality, civil rights, and change through strength of love, not violence.
This is a great primer for children to learn about Dr. King’s life and work. It’s simplified enough that younger readers will not feel overwhelmed, and the quotes it features are ones with universal concepts that little bookworms can understand (focusing on justice, love, peace, equality, etc). I especially like that it started his story as a child, so little ones can more easily identify with his journey as he grows. But the book is still honest enough that it confronts the murder of Dr. King (tactfully), and the legacy he left behind. Collier’s illustrations are, of course, gorgeous (he was also the illustrator of last week’s BHM book, I, Too, Am America). The length is fine for baby bookworms, and JJ liked it very much. A fantastic kidlit biography with some beautiful art and a powerful message about the right to equality, the courage of one’s convictions, and the power of words. Baby Bookworm approved!
Be sure to check out The Baby Bookworm for more reviews!
October 4, 2009
Martin's Big Words was written for children in the primary grades. This story is about the life of Martin Luther King Junior. MLK's quotes are woven throughout the words of the entire text. It begins when Martin is a young boy and continues through his death. When he was a child he recognized racism in the community and wanted to make a difference. When he grew up he became a minister and learned that hate could be overcome with love. Over the years he worked with city leaders to improve the rights of African Americans. Because of how outspoken he was about civil rights many people hated him and did horrible things to him and his family, but he kept on speaking and eventually won the Nobel Prize. In 1968, however, Martin Luther King Jr. was shot and killed. Although he died, his words lived on.
The illustrations in this story are amazing! The illustrator, Bryan Collier, used real images mixed with watercolor paintings to create each picture. Some of the pages look like a beautiful collage! The story contains an author's note and an illusrator's note. These are very helpful at understanding both of their approaches to the story. Bryan Collier used the stained-glass windows throughout the story to symbolize many things: "multicolors for multi races, in the dark, they blaze our at you like beams of light, etc." This story is definitely inspiring at well done!
The illustrations in this story are amazing! The illustrator, Bryan Collier, used real images mixed with watercolor paintings to create each picture. Some of the pages look like a beautiful collage! The story contains an author's note and an illusrator's note. These are very helpful at understanding both of their approaches to the story. Bryan Collier used the stained-glass windows throughout the story to symbolize many things: "multicolors for multi races, in the dark, they blaze our at you like beams of light, etc." This story is definitely inspiring at well done!
November 12, 2009
DVD- Non-print
Martin’s Big Words DVD features the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The video begins with moving gospel music in the background, which plays throughout video. The narrator has a deep captivating voice and takes the viewer through the life of Martin Luther King. The story begins when Martin is a young boy and his view of the world. He questions and is very observant on how people are treated. The video continues focusing on his life events that lead up until his death. He was shot in Memphis 1968 where he went to help garbage collectors who were on strike. His messages of peace, love, and freedom are clearly expressed in this video. The movie zooms in and out of pictures (from the picture book) eluding to having the feeling of movement. Every now and again, famous quotes flashed on the screen and had a dramatic effect. The video also uses Dr. King’s voice from his famous ‘I have a Dream’ speech. “His big words are alive for us today.”
The DVD is recommended for students in primary elementary grades. The video is about 9 minutes and every minute is captivating. I highly recommend this DVD produced by Scholastic. The narrator does an excellent job of capturing the listener from the start. After viewing the DVD, I read the book and found the DVD to be more powerful and intense.
Martin’s Big Words DVD features the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The video begins with moving gospel music in the background, which plays throughout video. The narrator has a deep captivating voice and takes the viewer through the life of Martin Luther King. The story begins when Martin is a young boy and his view of the world. He questions and is very observant on how people are treated. The video continues focusing on his life events that lead up until his death. He was shot in Memphis 1968 where he went to help garbage collectors who were on strike. His messages of peace, love, and freedom are clearly expressed in this video. The movie zooms in and out of pictures (from the picture book) eluding to having the feeling of movement. Every now and again, famous quotes flashed on the screen and had a dramatic effect. The video also uses Dr. King’s voice from his famous ‘I have a Dream’ speech. “His big words are alive for us today.”
The DVD is recommended for students in primary elementary grades. The video is about 9 minutes and every minute is captivating. I highly recommend this DVD produced by Scholastic. The narrator does an excellent job of capturing the listener from the start. After viewing the DVD, I read the book and found the DVD to be more powerful and intense.
February 8, 2017
"Martin's Big Words" focuses on just that, the big words he used to change inequalities in the south, and improve the lives of all Americans. The pictures look like they are out of a magazine and look three-dimensional. The layout of each page gives equal emphasis to his words and the pictures. On almost every page is a quote taken directly from Martin. This book discusses Martin's role in the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott. This lets younger readers see his connection to Rosa Parks and helps build background knowledge for when they study these events in later grades. The last two illustrations are haunting and remind us that his words won't be forgotten.
This biography lacks details about his early life and family that many of my third graders had questions about. So I did have to read another biography to fill in that gap.
This biography lacks details about his early life and family that many of my third graders had questions about. So I did have to read another biography to fill in that gap.
March 20, 2010
I read this book on BookFlix. The website enables the story to come to life. The author tells the life story of Martin Luther King. "Everywhere in Martin's hometown, he saw the signs, WHITE ONLY. His mother told him: "You are as good as anyone." Martin used his words to create equality for all Americans. He talked to people for over ten years about justice before he gave his famous speech, "I have a Dream." His words will never be forgotten. I would read this book or show this book to students in almost every elementary grade. The illustrations are wonderful and the words speak to the readers.
December 24, 2008
The illustrations for this are quite unique - a mixture of collage and watercolor. I would love to see how Bryan Collier creates his art. I thought the text was just okay, although I did like the use of so many quotes from Martin Luther King. I also find it curious that they didn't include the book's title on the front cover.
July 24, 2011
This is a good introductory book about Martin Luther King Jr. My son did not really like the pictures, though.
April 22, 2011
Rappaport, Doreen. (2001). Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. B. Collier. New York: Scholastic, Inc.
Literary Genre: Biography (Picture Book)
“When I grow up, I’m going to get big words, too.” Martin did grow up to just this. He was a minister, just like his father and used big words to preach. Martin said “together” when others were saying “separate”. Martin walked, talked, and sang with others as they protested for equal rights. When black Americans were beaten and murdered for marching, Martin reminded people that “love is the key to the problems of the world.” In April of 1968, Martin was shot and died in Memphis, Tennessee, but “his big words are alive for us today.” Rappaport’s creativeness with text size, placement, and color emphasizes Martin’s big words while Collier’s stained glass artwork emphasizes Martin’s non-violent beliefs.
I enjoyed this biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. because it was organized uniquely and provides readers with a new perspective on a well-known leader. Both the Author and the Illustrator have written a “note” on the dedications page that reveals how they are both connected to and inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I particularly like how Rappaport mentions that she read several other biographies on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in preparation for this book (and she learned that a child, Martin was determined to use “big words”) because it validates her authenticity but teaches the readers something new about this great leader.
Literary Genre: Biography (Picture Book)
“When I grow up, I’m going to get big words, too.” Martin did grow up to just this. He was a minister, just like his father and used big words to preach. Martin said “together” when others were saying “separate”. Martin walked, talked, and sang with others as they protested for equal rights. When black Americans were beaten and murdered for marching, Martin reminded people that “love is the key to the problems of the world.” In April of 1968, Martin was shot and died in Memphis, Tennessee, but “his big words are alive for us today.” Rappaport’s creativeness with text size, placement, and color emphasizes Martin’s big words while Collier’s stained glass artwork emphasizes Martin’s non-violent beliefs.
I enjoyed this biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. because it was organized uniquely and provides readers with a new perspective on a well-known leader. Both the Author and the Illustrator have written a “note” on the dedications page that reveals how they are both connected to and inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I particularly like how Rappaport mentions that she read several other biographies on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in preparation for this book (and she learned that a child, Martin was determined to use “big words”) because it validates her authenticity but teaches the readers something new about this great leader.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,339 reviews