Martin's Big Words

I have a great many books about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. They are all wonderful. This, however, is my absolute favorite--Martin's Big Words by Doreen Rappaport, illlustrated by Bryan Collier.

Here's why I love it so:

1. Rappaport has ingeniously juxtaposed her original text with direct quotes from Dr. King's life. For example, after listening to his father preach when he was a young boy, Martin said, "When I grow up, I'm going to get big words, too." I love the way she uses his words and how it makes me feel more connected to him.

2. Collier's art is perfect. I suppose I'm biased because collage happens to be my very favorite medium. Here, Collier has used watercolor and collage to put lifelike images of Dr. King against a background of various textures and images. Like his life and the Civil Rights Movement itself, the illustrations are bold, complex, and multi-layered. I think Collier has captured the feeling of that time beautifully.

If you're looking for great books about Dr. King to read with your child, start with this one. It is geared for young children (I'd say Kindergarten-3rd grade), but it is an inspiring book for all ages.