SHARING THE DREAM

The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, seen through the eyes of a young Black girl.

Along with her parents, young Agnes travels by bus from Birmingham, Alabama, to Washington, D.C., proud to be taking part in this momentous occasion in the summer of 1963. Munching on a homemade sandwich, Agnes dreams of prominent figures of the Civil Rights Movement such as Sidney Poitier, Lena Horne, and Jackie Robinson. (Backmatter offers a spotlight on some of the famous people who were part of the March.) Once in D.C., a detour to the historic home of Frederick Douglass places a lot of what’s happening in helpful perspective. The family reads a famous quote by Douglass: “I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong.” Agnes is pleasantly surprised to see people from all walks of life using the same water fountains (there are no “whites only” signs in sight), marching shoulder to shoulder, sharing a poignant moment in the reflection pond, and uniting for what’s right. Sitting on Daddy’s shoulders, Agnes takes in monumental words from John Lewis and Josephine Baker, a moving performance from Mahalia Jackson, and, ultimately, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Moses’ text is tinged with childlike excitement and wonder. Mallett’s digital illustrations glow with warmth, with Agnes’ braids and yellow bows framing her joyful face as she listens to the speakers with pride.

A stirring tale and proof positive that young people can help make history, too.