We March

Author & Illustrator:   Shane W. Evans
Publisher:  Roaring Brook Press
Publication Year:   2012
Location: Knox County Public Library- Lawson McGhee

Awards:   Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year, Charlotte Zolotow Award / Highly Commended, Jane Addams Award, Kirkus Reviews Best Books, Capitol Choices Noteworthy Titles for Children and Teens

Summary:  In August 1963, an African American family wakes up early to get ready to march. They pray for strength, make signs, and board buses heading for Washington DC. They walk with people of all kinds and sing. They are filled with hope and lean on each other. They march for justice and freedom. Evan's full-page paintings are beautiful and match the simple text perfectly.

Classroom Ideas: A classroom study of the Civil Rights movement and the life of Martin Luther King Jr.

Extras: author's note talking about the march where MLKJr. made his most historic speech

Underground

Author & Illustrator:   Shane W. Evans
Publisher:  Roaring Brook Press
Publication Year:   2011
Location: Knox County Public Library- Powell

Awards:   featured on "Calling Caldecott" blog, Coretta Scott King award, Publisher's Weekly, School Library Journal, & Kirkus starred reviews

Summary:  The story of the underground railroad is told here in a few simple sentences. The real focus is on the mixed-media illustrations. The contrast between dark and light is compelling in the collages, and the moment when the sun finally rises on the freed family is remarkable.

Classroom Ideas: This is a simple introduction to the underground railroad that would be appropriate for the early elementary grades.