Autobiography- I am Rosa Parks
Summary
The remarkable Rosa Parks, most well known for her role in the Civil Rights Movement, tells the story of her childhood and key events in her life. While young readers may not understand why we once were segregated, the text is written in simple language for young readers to understand.
Personal Reflection
I personally appreciate that the very first chapter of the book is entitled 'I get arrested.' This is a powerful way to captivate a young audience. For students who do not have a background knowledge of who Rosa Parks was, beginning the text with her arrest provides a context of why Rosa Parks was influential. The following chapters highlight Rosa's childhood and present readers with a personal reflection of why Rosa did what she did. This insight connects readers to the emotion of this pivotal moment in history.
Illustrations
Illustrations by Wil Clay use a variety of muted yellows and browns giving the images a historical feel. The cartoon images have a lifelike quality to them as the represent factual events and people. Illustrations are presented on each page ranging in size. Detailed brush strokes capture the mood of the text and convey powerful imagery.
Literary Elements
This text would be categorized as autobiography as Rosa Parks retells her life story. Chapter titles depict what events readers may occur in that section of reading. Themes include discrimination, love, acceptance, and bravery. Language throughout the text is suitable toward a young audience, perhaps 2nd grade.
Activities
Students will reflect on the theme of standing up for what is right. Students will engage in a reflective writing prompt of "I can stand up for others when..." Illustrations can be drawn above the prompt.
Other Works by the Author
References
Parks, R., & Haskins, J. (1999). I am Rosa Parks. Penguin Young Readers.




I really enjoyed reading such great information about this book. I believe that children should should be informed about history. Some historians did great things to save others.
ReplyDelete