The Story of Rosa Parks

by Patricia A. Pingry

Rosa Parks is recognized as "the mother of the Civil Rights movements" and one of the most courageous women of the twentieth century. This story of only 200 words provides an introduction to Rosa Parks and uses simple, short words with only the bare outline of Parks's life. The focus of the story is the history-making event of December 1, 1955, when Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the Cleveland Avenue bus.

Genres: Childrens

26 pages, Board Book

First published February 15, 2007

Reviews

[Alayna Eve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring story for children about Mrs. Parks and her stand for equality.

[Kimberly Kimmel · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Story of Rosa Parks is written by Patricia A. Pingry and illustrated by Steven Walker. The genre of this book is biography and nonfiction. The book is intended for children ages two through five. This book is about Rosa Parks’ life growing up. She dropped out of high school to take care of her grandmother and then got married and decided to finish school to be a seamstress. She rode the bus every day and stood up for herself when she was told to move for a white person. She is known as the mother of civil rights. I rated this book 3/5 stars because the book does not have much detail and leaves out so many parts of the story, of what really happened. However, the book does have great illustrations. It does not flow well but gives the bare outline of Rosa Parks’ life and makes it easier for very young children to understand. I do not think this book is very appealing to young children.

[Jordyn]

Awards- none that i can find
Grade levels- 1-4
Summary- This children's book is a straightforward telling of the action Rosa Parks took in 1955 that led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Uses simple, short words to introduce a very "heavy" topic; even the youngest readers will understand it.
Review- Does a wonderful and approcpirate job of familiarizing young students with civil rights. I read this story with my six year old cousin and she loved it! A great conversation starter.
In class uses- I would use this for a social studies lesson, or a unit about civil rights. Students can make graphic organizers, fact sheets, or illustrations for the lesson. I would also use it as a conversation starter. I would ask a question about civil rights and let the domino affect turn the question into a group conversation.

[Amy Layton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Story of Rosa Parks, through its use of approximately 200 words and oil paintings takes a difficult moment in American history and condenses it in a respectful, and age-appropriate way. The text changes color when Pingry wants to highlight something, such as important dates and locations, effectively showing the importance of not only the story as a whole, but of the specifics of this journey. The detail of the illustrations also alludes to the gravity of this piece of history—it’s a moment in history that is weighted, serious, and real. Great for black children, children interested in history, and for those who like making a stand. Perfect for ages 2-5.

Review cross-listed here!

[Jennifer]

I received an eSample courtesy of WorthyKids.

[Yonasan Aryeh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illustrated by Steven Walker, this board book uses a oil painting style of art that helps the reader feel like they are experiencing history, even though the washed-out faces leads one to not feel personally affiliated with the events of history. As a board book, the story of Rosa Parks is shared as her quickly growing up and leading to the key moment when she changed the treatment of African Americans regarding the bus system. Her efforts in the civil rights movement will always be appreciated and remembered, and this book does an excellent job leading young readers to learn of the historical efforts of Parks.

Children will learn key facts about the historical civil rights movement and the efforts that Rosa Parks lead regarding the bus system - including the boycott that lasted over a year. Fun for young readers, the book does not touch on the darker moments of this movement’s struggle in America, but keeps it light-hearted and encouraging, allowing youth to feel like they live in a nation that as grown up and away from the struggles of racism and classism.

Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post.

[Vera Godley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though this is a small board book, the text and understanding would preclude it's being appropriate for preschoolers. I can see letting first and third graders read it, though they might be a bit put off with a board book.

This little biography shows Rosa Parks disobeying the law about riding the bus. It is hard for people today to understand these laws. Her actions make me think a bit of the defiance of the Patriots of the Boston Tea Party when they defied the British and tossed the tea into the sea.

The illustrations are drawings and are a bit on the "dark" side until the page where the ruling allowing people to ride the bus as they wish, and then it seems flooded with light.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review of my honest opinion.

[Emily Kimball · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this to Third Grade students while subbing today. They loved it - this book inspired much conversation about realities that we need to know as American citizens.