Small Shoes, Great Strides: How Three Brave Girls Opened Doors to School Equality

by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, Alex Bostic (Illustrator)

Leona Tate, Gail Etienne, and Tessie Prevost didn't set out to make history. But when these three Black first graders stepped into the all-white McDonogh No. 19 Public School in New Orleans on November 14, 1960, that's exactly what they did. They integrated their school just ten minutes before Ruby Bridges walked into her school, also in New Orleans. Like Ruby, the trio faced crowds of protestors fighting against public school desegregation efforts and relied on US Marshals to keep them safe. Their teacher protected them every step of the way, and the girls formed a close bond, becoming friends for life. Award-winning author Vaunda Micheaux Nelson conducted extensive interviews to bring this little-known story from the Civil Rights Movement to a broad audience. Vivid illustrations by fine artist Alex Bostic highlight the girls' strength, courage, and determination.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Biography, School, Historical, History, Juvenile

40 pages, Hardcover

First published November 7, 2023

About the author

Vaunda Micheaux Nelson loves bringing books and children together and feels lucky to have two careers that foster this. The children's librarian and author says, "It was destined from the day I was born. My mother found my name in a novel she was reading."

Vaunda's first book, Always Gramma, was selected by the Children's Book Council as a Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies. Mayfield Crossing won the Georgia Children's Book in 1995, and Beyond Mayfield received a 1999 Parents' Choice Gold Award. Almost to Freedom, her most recent title, received a Coretta Scott King Honor for illustration in 2004. In addition, Vaunda's poetry has been published in Cricket and Cicada magazines.

Vaunda has been a teacher, newspaper reporter, bookseller, school librarian, and twice a member of the Newbery Award Committee. She holds master's degrees from The Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College, Vermont, and from the University of Pittsburgh School of Library and Information Science. Her memberships include the SCBWI, the American Library Association and the Association for Library Service to Children. The Pennsylvania native is currently the young adult librarian at a public library in New Mexico, where she lives with her husband, Drew, and two cats.

Reviews

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible book about some incredible people. Leona, Tessie, Gail, their wonderful teacher Miss Meyers, and the US Marshals that kept them safe are an absolute inspiration.

Nelson does a wonderful job sharing their experiences. There is just the right balance of including how awful their challenges were, but also their strength and resilience in facing and overcoming them.

[Shoshanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really learned a lot about the actual school experience of the McDonogh 3! I have seen so many photos of desegregation stories, but to know what they went through at school, and what happened to white parents who tried to send their children was really illuminating.

[JoJo Ames · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful illustrations compliment the account of 3 African American girls who attended the newly integrated McDonogh 19 Public School in Louisiana. The details provided were balanced in perspective. I appreciated the author's description of the family support each girl received.

[Melanie Dulaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of us would recognize the name “Ruby Bridges” and likely picture the little girl being escorted into a previously all white school with a crowd filled with cheering and protesting as she entered the building flanked by armed officials. But 10 minutes earlier and across the same town, 3 other first graders were also breaking the racial divide in education. Vaunda M. Nelson researched what she could from New Orleans’ Hurricane Katrina damaged archives and interviewed the trio of Leona Tate, Tessie Provost, and Gail Etienne plus 1 of the 3 U.S. Marshalls assigned to protect the girls and her book is filled with history many of us are unfamiliar with. The bravery of Ruby and the fact that it was a scary walk into a new school that was not exactly welcoming her with open arms has been widely stated, but Nelson’s book takes readers into the room with covered windows, no other children, only indoor recess, and even water fountains that were disabled due to fears that someone would poison the water supply. Back matter explores integration more deeply as well as the U.S Marshall service and updates on the history-making girls and how their educational paths crossed with Ruby’s as they grew older.

While the page count may put this non-fiction book into the “picture book” category, the amount of text and its depth make it far more fitting for 3rd-6th graders and maybe even used in middle school/jr high history classes when looking at significant events during the United States’ progress towards equity and fairness in education.

Thanks for providing a print arc to me for review, Lerner Books/CarolRhoda.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

African American History Month: book number 9.

4.5 Stars, rounded up.

This book is packed full of information, with several pages of additional background information at the end of the story. The author, Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, interviewed Gail Etienne, Leona Tate, Tessie Provost, and Hershel Marshall (retired US Marshall).

The cover illustrations by Alex Bostic, look very much like the girls’ photos.

On November 14, 1960, Tessie, Leona, and Gail were escorted by US Marshalls into McDonogh 19 Elementary school in New Orleans. At the same time, Ruby Bridges was preparing to enter her school in the same city. There were protestors, and white parents taking their children out of school. By the end of the week, the three girls were the only children left in the school.

Their teacher, Miss Meyers, was kind. Their classroom windows were covered with paper, and the girls stayed inside for recess for their safety. The drinking fountains were shut down due to threats of poisoning.

“Over time, they became known as the McDonogh Three. The girls formed a bond that has never broken. They grew as close as sisters and continue to stay in touch and support one another to this very day.”

The story goes on to tell what schools each of the girls transferred to, and the bullying that took place after the US Marshalls were no longer with them.

“Leona, Tessie, Gail, and pioneers like them helped to open doors so all children could receive the education they deserve—so no one could ever again say, You can’t go to school here because of your skin color. With all they faced, the girls and their parents didn’t give up. They paved the way for white children and black children to sit side by side, learning with and from each other.”

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Small Shoes, Great Strides” is about three young girls who integrate their elementary school in New Orleans. Interestingly, the girls enter their school just 10 minutes before Ruby Bridges does the same at her elementary school in the same city. We learn about the first three years of Leona, Gail, and Tessie’s experience in a previously all white school, then the book skips ahead to what happened at the end of elementary school.

There is a LOT of text in this picture book, but I don’t know how you could approach the story without a great deal of explanation. The illustrations capture both joy and fear. I really liked what amounts to an epilogue that tells us what happened after the girls finished elementary and secondary school.

The courage of the children and their parents really strikes me. I can’t imagine six year olds resolutely walking into a building while being yelled at and spit upon by adults. I can’t imagine the fear of the parents as they sent their children off to school each day and the courage they had to move mountains to make sure their daughters had equal access to education.

This book is great for kids of all ages. Even teenagers could get a lot out of this story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by NetGalley and the publisher, Carolrhoda Books. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Gaia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vaunda Micheaux Nelson's Small Shoes, Great Strides is an account of the courageous journey of Leona Tate, Gail Etienne, and Tessie Prevost as they integrated McDonogh No. 19 Public School in New Orleans in 1960.

This beautifully illustrated book not only sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of the Civil Rights Movement, especially the role of the children, but also emphasizes the power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity. I cannot imagine the trauma these children experienced as they were escorted by U.S. Marshals in to school, and that is why it is so important that they tell their story, as they have in this book.

Nelson's meticulous research and interviews bring authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to connect deeply with the young girls who, despite their tender age, became symbols of hope and change. The vivid illustrations by Alex Bostic complement the text perfectly, capturing the emotional weight of the girls' experiences and the tumultuous environment surrounding them.

This book is a must-read for children and adults alike, as it not only educates about the struggles for school equality but also celebrates the bravery of those who dared to challenge the status quo. Small Shoes, Great Strides is a powerful reminder of the impact that even the smallest voices can have in the fight for justice and equality.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 5 out of 5]

This illustrated nonfiction book tells the story of the three girls who integrated a formerly all-white school just ten minutes before Ruby Bridges started her school day in a different part of the same city. Although Ruby Bridges has received lots of press, most people have never heard of Leona Tate, Gail Etienne, and Tessie Prevost, and this author shares their little-known stories in an incredibly powerful way.

The author did a wonderful job weaving in historical context throughout the book, and she shares the girls' perspectives in a way that feels authentic and touching, representing the ways that their experiences both overlapped and differed. The illustrations throughout the book are beautiful, and they greatly enrich the true story. There is also even more information at the end, along with photographs.

This is aimed at a middle-grade reading level, and although it is too wordy for younger elementary students, parents and teachers can read it aloud. I would also recommend this to teens and adults, both because of the story's historical importance and because the book is so well-crafted and engaging.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although these 3 girls were integrating schools at the same time as Ruby Bridges, we do not hear of them. Even though they faced the same dangers, had US Marshals protecting them, received death threats, hate mail, and endured ongoing protests, we never hear about these three brave girls. They are Leona, Tessie, and Gail. When they entered the school to go to first grade, all the other families, all white, withdrew their children. Their teacher stayed, though. She came every day and taught the girls; she loved them and protected them. The 3 girls became close friends and remained so for the rest of their lives because of all the hardships they faced together.
Illustrations were done in a lush watercolor/color pencil/oil pastel style that was based on historical photographs and trips to New Orleans to make them as authentic as possible.
The author did extensive interviews to put this book together. Back matter includes additional information about what happened to Lona, Tessie, and Gail after they left McDonogh # 19 Public School; more about desegregation in New Orleans; a piece about Norman Rockwell's famous painting; a note about the US Marshals service; an author's note; a glossary; webistes for more information; a selected bibliography; and a few photographs.
CW: racism

[Karen Gedeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Shoes, Great Strides: How Three Brave Girls Opened Doors to School Equality written by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson and illustrated by Alex Bostic. Most people are familiar with Ruby Bridges, but they don’t know that across town on the very day Ruby was integrating schools, three brave girls were doing the same thing. Nelson gently and honestly tells the story of why and how Leona, Tessie and Gail were chosen to integrate McDonogh 19 Public School, along with the repercussions of their attendance. The story follows them through their lives and touches on the friendships they formed with the U.S. Marshals who were assigned to keep them safe. Included are More About the McDonogh Three, a glossary, photos, an author’s note, and bibliography. The often-lifelike illustrations were beautifully created with acrylics. A nice addition to school elementary and middle school libraries as it ties nicely into curriculum.

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rounded up because I think this should be a must read. The story of three girls who integrated McDonogh School in New Orleans ten minutes before Ruby Bridges entered Frantz. According to them their year in first grade and second weren't bad. Backmatter however, tells the story of the abuse in 3rd grade at Semmes that was brutal (They referred to Semmes as the "house of horror" and 'the Devil's Domain"). Interesting information about the Rockwell's picture and how the US Marshall's badges were sent with deputies attached. Further backmatter tells how Leona, Gail and Ruby won a battle in eleventh grade to change the school mascot from the Confederate flag to a bobcat. Leona saw her role not as integration, but a fight for fairness and equality. Tessie couldn't take the abuse and withdrew after sixth grade to blossom at an all-black school. The author also explains how luckily her subjects are still living since much of the archival material was lost during Hurricane Katrina.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading children’s books and learning something new for myself. There was a lot of good information included after the story as well. This picture book was a very honest depiction of the experiences of the children involved in desegregating schools in New Orleans. The author didn’t shy away from the difficult realities of these events. I look forward to reading this with my older children. I can see how this book will be a great opportunity to talk about race and how people fight to make social change. The illustrations are also beautiful. Thank you NetGalley for offering this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Zan Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leona Tate, Gail Etienne, and Tessie Prevost didn't set out to make history. But when these three Black first graders stepped into the all-white McDonogh No. 19 Public School in New Orleans on November 14, 1960, that's exactly what they did. They integrated their school just ten minutes before Ruby Bridges walked into her school, also in New Orleans. Like Ruby, the trio faced crowds of protestors fighting against public school desegregation efforts and relied on US Marshals to keep them safe. Their teacher protected them every step of the way, and the girls formed a close bond, becoming friends for life."--Goodreads.com

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everybody has heard of Ruby Bridges, but three other little girls were actually the first to desegregate New Orleans' public schools--walking into their school across town just ten minutes earlier. ;)
This was really thorough and well-done, almost a bridge between picture books and chapter books, with headings and more text than you see on a typical picture book page. It was too text-heavy for my 3- and 5-year-olds to sit and listen to, but I enjoyed it, including the back matter that explained more about desegregation in New Orleans and gave a brief update on the lives of the three women featured in the story.

[Emmalee Horak · Rating 4 out of 5]

The artwork is so beautiful in this story! It depicts their hair and differences so well and makes the story utterly ravishing. While this is nonfiction it tells it like a story. A story where these poor girls had to be the first at such a hard thing. They show how hard it was and how it was nothing we could imagine in a million years. I have nothing but kind words for this book but it does seem to be a little wordy for younger audiences. I would love for a copy of this book to be in my 4th or 5th grade classroom to teach lessons about how we need to be grateful for being there.

[Margaret Boling · Rating 5 out of 5]

3/3/2024 ~ This book is fascinating, & highlights the issue of erasure > stories that have been told one way for so long, that we forget the context around the story. This multi-person biography highlights the experiences of 3 girls who integrated a New Orleans elementary school the same day that Ruby Bridges made her historic walk into school a few blocks away. I appreciated the author's description of her research, the impact of Hurricane Katrina on that research, and the inclusion of information beyond the single year of the girls'/women's lives.

[Ash M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good nonfiction book for upper elementary age children. It provides a new prospective on desegregation of schools in the south. Most children learn a small bit about Ruby Bridges, but this book provides a unique perspective on another group of young girls who helped pioneer desegregation. The back of the book also provides information on these women today. Wonderfully written book with a powerful message.

[Kimberly Tierney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for older elementary aged kids about an important part of history that needs to be told. Many adults have never heard of these girls, and I'm glad someone is writing to teach children about them. It is key to hear about all of those who struggled through these days to create the integrated system that we have now. I absolutely recommend this book for libraries and educators of 4th grade and above.

[Ellon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars (I really liked it)

Absolutely fascinating and so well written! I learned so much about these 3 women (who, I'm proud to say, I DID know about before reading this book). My complaint is one you will commonly see on my reviews. This is way too text heavy for a picture book! This probably should have been a short novel. Especially with how serious the subject matter is (in regards to talk of death threats, guns, etc.)

[Shaylie Dobbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book discusses the first three African Americans that attended school with White Americans, well sort. Once the three girls started school every White American withdrew their child because they did not want their child around African Americans. The book walks the reader through many struggles that the girls faced because of their skin color. This would be a great book to make a lesson plan regarding diversity, civil rights movements, or even gratitude.

[Cornmaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tough but must be told story of the other little girls who integrated New Orleans schools besides Ruby Bridges. It was hard to read how they were treated as they moved up grades, while the white kids returned to school. Hard and enraging.

There's an afterword about each now grown woman and how they fared in life. All of them had to return to all black schools by high school because of the abuse, both physical and emotional. That made me so sad.

[Thomas Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story. But that's not enough for 5 stars. This book earned it because it was a great telling of this great story. I loved the notes at the end as well, which I definitely include as part of this book.

[Kristen M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This biography features the McDonogh Three as they integrate the public school system after Brown vs, Board of Education in New Orleans at McDonogh No. 19 Public School in the Fall of 1960, at the same time as Ruby Bridges does.

[Peacegal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thought-provoking, beautifully-presented story about a frightening period in American history--well within the lifetimes of many people living today. No progress in our society has ever been made without struggle against those who don't want to change.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for the Charlie May Simon Award Committee. You always hear about Ruby Bridges, but hardly ever hear about these three brave little girls. I am so happy that their story is now shared with the young readers of the world.

[GS Dachslove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful book about desegregation of schools. Not about Ruby Bridges, but about other girls integrating at the same time.

[Rebecca Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book about the desegregation of schools in the American south. I would love to use this in a unit when we look at newspapers covering events and the picture book about them.

[Dolores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous and powerful story that I did not know. A really good read.

[Andréa]

Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Abigail Hostetler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very long but it is very interesting and informative. Would be a great for learning about segregation.