Montgomery Bus Boycott (Civil Rights Movement)

Grade 7 Up—The wrenching consequences of Rosa Parks's decision that sparked the Civil Rights Movement are depicted in this well-written book. Descriptions of civil rights activism dating back to 1865, including multiple attempts to desegregate streetcars, trains, and buses, provide historical context and a sense of the fervor surrounding discrimination and segregation. The facts of the boycott are documented with supportive news articles, relevant quotations, moving individual stories, and significant court cases. Extra details distinguish this book from similar titles. For example, Aretha tells the little-known story of a courageous white librarian who wrote letters praising the boycott only to commit suicide after she was harassed and ostracized by her community.