HEROES FOR CIVIL RIGHTS

In this companion to Heroes of the Revolution (2003) and Enemies of Slavery (2004), both illustrated by Donald A. Smith, Adler introduces eight men, two women and three clusters of individuals (the “Little Rock Nine,” for instance) who stood up for nonviolent protest during the Civil Rights movement. Opposite one-page narratives that describe their deeds in simple language and highlight their courage in the face of violence, Farnsworth places formal portraits of strong, resolute-looking figures. Both will leave lasting impressions on readers. Though his bibliography will be of more interest to adults than children, Adler closes with a useful chronology, from 1953 to 1968. By adding Earl Warren and LBJ to his roster, he serves up a reminder that African-Americans weren’t the only impassioned champions of equal rights. (introduction, source notes) (Collective biography. 7-10)