This is a very moving picture book about the day Martin Luther King Jr. was shot. The perspective is that of a third grade African American girl growing up in Chicago. The author was a child of this time and wanted to communicate what that experience was like for her. Veronica was in an after-school program when her teacher was told that Mr. King had been shot. The details of his condition were not immediately known, so the room was very quiet and tense. The students were told to go right home and not to stop along the way. As an eight year old child, it was hard for Veronica to fully understand the enormity of the day's tragic event. Upon returning home, Veronica's mother was listening to the news and praying that Mr. King would be alright. A brief reminder of what great things he had done for the people, all people, was expressed. There was a sense of hope that he would make it and still be able to be a crusader for the civil rights movement.
The next day, school was cancelled and everyone stayed inside, away from possible danger. Being stuck inside on a beautiful day was confusing for Veronica and her brother. Even more confusing was seeing their mother, the rock of the family, crying and distant. The illustrations are intense and express a lot of emotion. I can't imagine living during this horrible tragedy, especially as a young child--it wasn't history in a book for them, but was unfolding right in front of their eyes. Although it is a very short book, students can definitely gain insight into this important man and his impact on all Americans.
"Every person should be the best that he or she can be."
Martin Luther King, Jr.
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