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My Uncle Martin's Big Heart
A moving portrait of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. from his niece
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is a story about love between a young girl and her uncle, and all the love she sees her uncle share—with his family members, with his church congregation, and with all people. In this inspiring narrative about Martin Luther King Jr.—told by his niece—young readers will discover the story of the man behind the civil rights hero and activist, one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century.
As Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, introduces children to her uncle, she presents them with a rare glimpse into his life at home, including special family moments. What unfolds is a story of character and service to God, family, and mankind, and of how one man’s extraordinary love changed the history of the United States and the world.
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is a story about love between a young girl and her uncle, and all the love she sees her uncle share—with his family members, with his church congregation, and with all people. In this inspiring narrative about Martin Luther King Jr.—told by his niece—young readers will discover the story of the man behind the civil rights hero and activist, one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century.
As Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, introduces children to her uncle, she presents them with a rare glimpse into his life at home, including special family moments. What unfolds is a story of character and service to God, family, and mankind, and of how one man’s extraordinary love changed the history of the United States and the world.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 8, 2010
There are many books for young people available about Martin Luther King, Jr., but this new picture book adds a different and welcome dimension to the usual biographies of the famous civil rights leader. Written by Martin Luther King's niece, Angela Farris Watkins, who was almost 4 years old when King was assassinated, the book offers a highly personal reminiscence of the man, not the icon.
The author's voice used throughout the book is Angela herself as a young girl (although a bit older than she actually was at the time), and although she is aware of her uncle as a great leader and an American hero, she concentrates on the man she knew as Uncle M.L., the family's special nickname for him. We see a man who loved to laugh and make others laugh, who loved to spend time with his family, and who although he worked very long hours, managed to find time not only for his own immediate family, but for his nieces and nephews as well! We even see Uncle M.L. spread out sleeping on Angela's family sofa with his shoes on, obviously a big no-no in the house, but OK for uncle M.L., since he was so tired from his hard work.Angela also talks about Uncle M.L. the preacher and his great voice, and there's a delightful depiction of one of her favorite memories of her uncle, where she would run up to him after he finished on the pulpit for a great big hug, dressed in her "very best church dress."
In the end, the author emphasizes that Uncle M. L.'s big heart full of love was what made him so special--his love not only for his family, but for America. In an author's note, she writes: "I wrote this book so that children could get to know Martin Luther King Jr. the way I knew him when I was a child, through his love...I want them to see how much love he really had--enough to share with his family and his friends, enough to encourage his church, enough to strengthen his community, and enough to change the world."With this lovely new book, Angela Farris Watkins has succeeded admirably in her goal. This will make an excellent addition to both school and public libraries, and would be a terrific read-aloud for elementary school classrooms when learning about Dr. King.
The beautifully realized painted illustrations by Eric Velasquez, who has illustrated many other historical picture books, capture the warm relationship King had with his family, as well as carefully detailing the period setting through use of archival photographs.
This would be an excellent book to combine with My Brother Martin: A Sister Remembers Growing Up with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Simon & Schuster, 2003), written by Christine King Farris (the author's mother).
The author's voice used throughout the book is Angela herself as a young girl (although a bit older than she actually was at the time), and although she is aware of her uncle as a great leader and an American hero, she concentrates on the man she knew as Uncle M.L., the family's special nickname for him. We see a man who loved to laugh and make others laugh, who loved to spend time with his family, and who although he worked very long hours, managed to find time not only for his own immediate family, but for his nieces and nephews as well! We even see Uncle M.L. spread out sleeping on Angela's family sofa with his shoes on, obviously a big no-no in the house, but OK for uncle M.L., since he was so tired from his hard work.Angela also talks about Uncle M.L. the preacher and his great voice, and there's a delightful depiction of one of her favorite memories of her uncle, where she would run up to him after he finished on the pulpit for a great big hug, dressed in her "very best church dress."
In the end, the author emphasizes that Uncle M. L.'s big heart full of love was what made him so special--his love not only for his family, but for America. In an author's note, she writes: "I wrote this book so that children could get to know Martin Luther King Jr. the way I knew him when I was a child, through his love...I want them to see how much love he really had--enough to share with his family and his friends, enough to encourage his church, enough to strengthen his community, and enough to change the world."With this lovely new book, Angela Farris Watkins has succeeded admirably in her goal. This will make an excellent addition to both school and public libraries, and would be a terrific read-aloud for elementary school classrooms when learning about Dr. King.
The beautifully realized painted illustrations by Eric Velasquez, who has illustrated many other historical picture books, capture the warm relationship King had with his family, as well as carefully detailing the period setting through use of archival photographs.
This would be an excellent book to combine with My Brother Martin: A Sister Remembers Growing Up with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Simon & Schuster, 2003), written by Christine King Farris (the author's mother).
February 13, 2015
Have I ever told you about my Uncle Jimmie? He was so funny and so ornery. He used to hide from me and my cousin, Michael, in the bushes and then talk to us like he was the man on the moon. We were pretty little so we totally believed him and would talk to him until my Grandma found him and chased him out form behind the bushes. This is a story told by a little girl loves her uncle very much, enough to write a story for us to read. Her uncle is an important part of our history. He worked to make is so we could all be in this room together. Let’s see who can figure out who her uncle was and why he was so important. I want you to raise your hand when you think you know. (Read the title) My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart. (Show the front cover, then back). Anyone recognize this man? (Read first page). “Have you heard of the man who spoke out, “I have a dream!”? Pause after second page that identifies Martin Luther King Jr. to review what we know about him.
Opening moves: Share a personal connection. Clarify the writer’s point of view. Raise the question ‘Let’s see who can figure out who her uncle was…’to spark curiosity. Read some of the text to engage attention.
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is another unique perspective on a famous civil rights activist. It shows him as a person, rather than a historical figurehead that just biographies can do. Again the young kid’s viewpoint gives the students stories they can relate to easily, hopefully to spark their interests to go and find the biographies.
Opening moves: Share a personal connection. Clarify the writer’s point of view. Raise the question ‘Let’s see who can figure out who her uncle was…’to spark curiosity. Read some of the text to engage attention.
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is another unique perspective on a famous civil rights activist. It shows him as a person, rather than a historical figurehead that just biographies can do. Again the young kid’s viewpoint gives the students stories they can relate to easily, hopefully to spark their interests to go and find the biographies.
March 22, 2012
Its most compelling aspect is that it is being narrated by King's niece and helps us to envision him not just as a national hero and activist but also within a family network of adults and children, homes and churches. The illustrations were somewhat uneven, ranging from brilliant (over King's shoulder to the crowds on the Mall, marching in the South) to okay. I had high hopes for this book. but it just didn't do the heavy lifting that this national icon and our familiarity with him requires.
January 18, 2021
“…he was an ordinary man with extraordinary love!”
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart was a fantastic book about Martin Luther King, Jr. You get a clear, really personal, in depth look at his life through the lens of one of his nieces. You get a glimpse of the man behind the icon – a son, a brother, a husband, a father, an uncle, who loved his family dearly.
MLKjr is a fascinating and important person to read about. I was mesmerized by the story and eager to learn more and more about how awe-inspired the author was by her uncle. You could see through the words and stunning illustrations how beloved and respected MLKjr was by his family whom he held close to his heart even while he was far from home a lot.
While the book is more focused on the relationship between niece and uncle, the reader still learns why MLKjr was such an inspirational and influential civil rights leader and how tirelessly he worked to make the world a better place for everyone.
I even learned something new about MLKjr: I didn’t know he had a nickname his family liked to call him – M.L. This book is worth the read and a perfect read-aloud for a classroom library.
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart was a fantastic book about Martin Luther King, Jr. You get a clear, really personal, in depth look at his life through the lens of one of his nieces. You get a glimpse of the man behind the icon – a son, a brother, a husband, a father, an uncle, who loved his family dearly.
MLKjr is a fascinating and important person to read about. I was mesmerized by the story and eager to learn more and more about how awe-inspired the author was by her uncle. You could see through the words and stunning illustrations how beloved and respected MLKjr was by his family whom he held close to his heart even while he was far from home a lot.
While the book is more focused on the relationship between niece and uncle, the reader still learns why MLKjr was such an inspirational and influential civil rights leader and how tirelessly he worked to make the world a better place for everyone.
I even learned something new about MLKjr: I didn’t know he had a nickname his family liked to call him – M.L. This book is worth the read and a perfect read-aloud for a classroom library.
November 5, 2018
This book was published in 2008, and it is a informational book about MLK from the viewpoint of his neice as a child. I would reccomend this book because it would allow students to see themselves as a character in the story. I would reccomend this book for K-8th grade students. It has words that second graders could read themselves, but I would read it aloud in Kindergarden and first grade. I would use this for a read-aloud in my future class.
January 18, 2021
A great children’s book to read on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day ❤️❤️
Love is the central theme in this book and is what Angela describes her uncle having so much of 💕 The love he gave her and the people around him when she was young is very prominent in this story. For young readers, you get a glimpse into his life as a civil rights leader and activist, so if you’re looking for a good book to read today, check out this title 😊
Love is the central theme in this book and is what Angela describes her uncle having so much of 💕 The love he gave her and the people around him when she was young is very prominent in this story. For young readers, you get a glimpse into his life as a civil rights leader and activist, so if you’re looking for a good book to read today, check out this title 😊
November 21, 2019
My Uncle Martin's Big is a beautiful book written from the perspective of Martin Luther King's niece. I love how this book highlights MLK's special relationships with his family members and his church family. This powerful book can be used to teach children about the MLK legacy of love and activism in his/our community/society.
February 27, 2017
I loved this view point of the life of Dr Martin Luther King. His niece really showed how he was a great family man and a great christian and I think that I would use this in my classroom maybe during black history month to show that these people that did all these great things are just like you and me. I may use this as a read aloud and then have an activity to go along with it.
January 19, 2021
Nice book about MLK that was a little more accessible for my younger elementary students, many of whom are just learning about the man. Many of his accomplishments are listed, but from the point of view of his niece when she was a child.
February 2, 2020
A beautifully illustrated book with a sweet story written by MLK’s niece. A one-of-a-kind look into the personal side of a famous person.
January 3, 2022
It was a cute book very cute book anyone I would recommend anyone to read it.
January 9, 2024
A wonderful introduction book into the life of Martin Luther King Jr. through his niece’s eyes. Lots of facts told in a fun way.
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March 1, 2017setting-life of martin luther king
awards- none
I would use this book when talking about marin luther king
awards- none
I would use this book when talking about marin luther king
December 19, 2014
I would use this book after a lesson about the Civil Rights movement as a means of summing up what students have learned, and to offer a unique and interesting point of view of Martin Luther King Jr. The book is written by Martin Luther King Junior's niece, offering a personal perspective of what this influential man was like. It goes beyond regurgitating facts, creating an interesting approach biography of a historical figure.
Watkins paints a picture of an ordinary family man with a big heart, full of so much love and understanding. It is heartwarming to hear about MLK in such a personal light, from someone who witnessed him sleeping on her mother's couch with his shoes on after a long day of work. This book was written by someone who felt the warmth of his smile and love firsthand, in contrast to an account of his life as seen standing behind a pedestal delivering a speech. This book uses simple and friendly language, and makes it impossible not to feel the love that Angela Watkins feels for her beloved Uncle Martin, or as she knows him as, M.L. The story is written in a way that captures her relationship with her uncle, and the memories she has of running into his arms after church on Sunday mornings.
The illustrations are painted with beautiful, rich colors. They are realistic and historically accurate, and do a good job of capturing a more casual side of Martin Luther King Junior, just as the test does. In the back of the book there is a note that details the history of MLK's life, and it is here that the reader learns that Angela Watkins was 4 years old when her uncle was killed. It talks about his most outstanding quality, his heart of love, and it was through love that he changed the world.
This book is touching, and just furthers the love and respect that the reader feels for this influential and loving man that acted as a symbol of peace during a dark and hateful era of American history. Instead of looking at falsified celebrities for motivation, this book inspires children to look at family members and other every day people and recognize the special things that they do and the lessons they have taught you.
Watkins paints a picture of an ordinary family man with a big heart, full of so much love and understanding. It is heartwarming to hear about MLK in such a personal light, from someone who witnessed him sleeping on her mother's couch with his shoes on after a long day of work. This book was written by someone who felt the warmth of his smile and love firsthand, in contrast to an account of his life as seen standing behind a pedestal delivering a speech. This book uses simple and friendly language, and makes it impossible not to feel the love that Angela Watkins feels for her beloved Uncle Martin, or as she knows him as, M.L. The story is written in a way that captures her relationship with her uncle, and the memories she has of running into his arms after church on Sunday mornings.
The illustrations are painted with beautiful, rich colors. They are realistic and historically accurate, and do a good job of capturing a more casual side of Martin Luther King Junior, just as the test does. In the back of the book there is a note that details the history of MLK's life, and it is here that the reader learns that Angela Watkins was 4 years old when her uncle was killed. It talks about his most outstanding quality, his heart of love, and it was through love that he changed the world.
This book is touching, and just furthers the love and respect that the reader feels for this influential and loving man that acted as a symbol of peace during a dark and hateful era of American history. Instead of looking at falsified celebrities for motivation, this book inspires children to look at family members and other every day people and recognize the special things that they do and the lessons they have taught you.
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April 25, 2014primary
Text to self: The author had a very special relationship with her uncle Martin. Who in your family do you have a special relationship with? What do you like about them? What makes your relationship special?
Knowledge: Where was MLK Jr. born?
Comprehension: Describe the relationship Angela had with her uncle.
Application: How does the time period Martin lived in affect the choices he made in his life?
Analysis: Why do you think it was important for Martin to find time to spend with his family?
Synthesis: Try writing your own note that Martin might have sent to his sister when his niece was born.
Evaluation: Decide what was more important to Martin, his work or his family.
(2010, October 1). School Library Journal. http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...#
Text to self: The author had a very special relationship with her uncle Martin. Who in your family do you have a special relationship with? What do you like about them? What makes your relationship special?
Knowledge: Where was MLK Jr. born?
Comprehension: Describe the relationship Angela had with her uncle.
Application: How does the time period Martin lived in affect the choices he made in his life?
Analysis: Why do you think it was important for Martin to find time to spend with his family?
Synthesis: Try writing your own note that Martin might have sent to his sister when his niece was born.
Evaluation: Decide what was more important to Martin, his work or his family.
(2010, October 1). School Library Journal. http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...#
March 2, 2012
My Uncle Martin's Big Heart is a beautifully written and illustrated book written by Angela Farris Watkins, Martin Luther King Jr.'s niece. She writes for a younger audience, most likely kindergarten through early 3rd grade. Angela tells of the joys of growing up with MLK Jr. as her uncle. She paints a beautiful picture of MLK the uncle (Uncle M.L) as well as MLK the activist and world leader. I highly recommend this text to teachers and librarians of children ages 5 through 9. These professionals could use the book in conjunction with a study of MLK Jr., the Civil Rights Movement or Black History Month. Very enjoyable!
August 8, 2011
Told by Christine King Farris's daughter, this is her recollection of her Uncle Martin. It's a different take on his life, and though the author was not yet four when Martin Luther King died, the recollections are pleasant and heart-warming. Eric Velasquez does a stunning job illustrating, and the book is a great addition to the collection of books on MLK that most libraries have.
September 25, 2013
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers (October 1, 2010)
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is a autobiographical account delivered form the perspective of the author who is Dr. King's niece. She recalls intimate moments she had with her uncle as she grew up with her famous Uncle. Delivering a story that shows the personal and family side of Dr. Martin. This book Has lovely illustrations that kids would love to see while reading or being read to.
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers (October 1, 2010)
My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is a autobiographical account delivered form the perspective of the author who is Dr. King's niece. She recalls intimate moments she had with her uncle as she grew up with her famous Uncle. Delivering a story that shows the personal and family side of Dr. Martin. This book Has lovely illustrations that kids would love to see while reading or being read to.
December 8, 2013
Martin Luther King Jr. is not an unknown character of children's literature books. There are many powerful, beautiful pieces of literature written about his life. However, Angela Farris Watkins tells his story from a completely new light--the light of a young girl, telling about her Uncle M.L. In My Uncle Martin's Big Heart, we learn of the love he held for his family, and how he influenced their lives. This is a beautiful perspective of a life well-lived.
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April 8, 2014My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is written from the perspective of his niece. Watkin’s shares her childhood memories of her famous uncle. I would use this book to introduce perspective. There are several books of Martin Luther King, Jr. and as a class we would compare different books about MLK, Jr. Students will also have the opportunity to write biographies and stories from a different perspectives.
February 20, 2011
This is a heartwarming tale about a kind uncle, who also just happened to be a famous man too. The story explains some family background and some details about Martin Luther King, Jr. (like the fact that his family called him M.L.) that are commonly seen in other stories about him. I think this is a great book to supplement other books about this inspirational leader.
February 20, 2013
There are many amazing books are Martin Luther. Perhaps because he was such an amazing man. I love the perspective in this book. Students are able to look at a historical figure from the eyes of a family member. This book allows them to see Martin as a real person and to think about what he may have done between speeches.
August 22, 2010
While I appreciate the perspective from another member of Martin Luther King's family, I just didn't think the writing was that good. Perhaps it is because Mrs. Watkins' legendary uncle died when she was only four years old. The story was a bit thin.
February 19, 2013
"Have you heard of the man who spoke out, "I have a dream!"?
My son really liked reading book. The illustrations were done so well! Great historical book that tells the part of the story that you don't normally hear.
My son really liked reading book. The illustrations were done so well! Great historical book that tells the part of the story that you don't normally hear.
July 27, 2010
An affectionate, respectful, personal portrait by a niece of "Uncle M.L." Beautiful illustrations. Great for sharing.
November 5, 2010
I really liked the illustrations! It was nice to hear the perspective and love from MLK's niece, but the writing was just okay. C. 2010, genre-informational
December 3, 2010
Lots of repetition and explanation, but not a lot of story or substance.
September 17, 2011
This book is a different book on MLK becuase its not him seen as an icon but more as a family member. The pictures are wonderful!
February 17, 2012
Great read for Black History Month. It's nice to read about the family man side of Dr. King, Jr. Loved the illustrations.
April 3, 2012
Wonderful pictures!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews