Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January every year as a way to celebrate the life and work of an amazing man in American history. Dr. King’s dream of a vibrant, multi-cultural society and his drive to shape the world around him is a powerful lesson for all American’s, young and old. On this day we want to look at books that help teach about Martin Luther King Jr Day for kids. There are countless books for kids of all ages that can highlight the message of hope, equality, and our shared humanity. Here are some of our favorites.
Books About Martin Luther King Jr Day For Kids
We start with a book for some of our youngest readers, Happy Birthday Martin Luther King Jr. While the book is simplified for young readers, the core message of peace and brotherhood among all people resonates in its simple words and stunning pictures. This is a great introduction of Martin Luther King Jr Day for kids.
Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King Jr. is available on Amazon.
Child of the Civil Rights Movement, by Paula Young Shelton, tells the true story of the young daughter of a civil rights leader; Andrew Young. It follows the author as she was moved by her family from New York to Atlanta to protest and fight to change unfair laws. This book tackles tough subjects like Jim Crow, through the innocent eyes of a child. It also introduces it readers to many civil rights giants, like Martin Luther King Jr. The illustrations in this book are beautifully done, telling an important story in a understanding way for young readers.
Child of the Civil Rights Movement is available on Amazon.
Our final book on our list today is by Doreen Rappaport, Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This picture book biography brings to life the civil rights pioneer, through his own words. This Caldecott Honor Book portrays a man that used his words to inspire change through peaceful action, not violence. The beautiful illustrations honor this great man.
Martin’s BIG Words is available on Amazon
More Reading Resources
These are just a few of the amazing stories that help to teach children about the life and works of Martin Luther King Jr. There are countless books for children and adults for those who are interested in learning more. The King Center has a selected bibliography on Dr. Martin Luther King that offers a range of reading options. PBS Kids also has a fantastic lists of books about Martin Luther King Jr Day for kids. This is where we found many of our favorites.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just another day off of work. It recognizes the life and work of a man who died fighting for equality and respect. We hope this book list helps to educate our friends on the powerful legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and inspire any future civil rights leaders in our midst.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character, that is the goal of true education.” ~Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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