Books about civil rights

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come is the powerful and deeply moving conclusion to Mildred D. Taylor’s legendary Logan family saga. Following the journey of Cassie Logan, whom readers first met in the Newbery Medal-winning Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, this novel spans decades of American history. From the Great Migration to the heights of the Civil Rights Movement, Cassie’s path takes her across the country—from Ohio and California to law school in Boston—before leading her back home to Mississippi to fight for justice and voter registration in the 1960s.

This book is a perfect choice for readers interested in American history, social justice, and multigenerational family stories. It offers a raw and honest look at the racist society of 20th-century America and the courageous individuals who fought for change. Ideal for fans of historical fiction who want to see how personal growth intertwines with historic milestones, this sweeping epic provides a fulfilling end to one of the most important series in young adult literature.

Highlights:

• The final chapter of the beloved Logan family saga spanning over forty years of storytelling.
• A detailed exploration of the Civil Rights Movement and the Great Migration through a personal lens.
• Follows Cassie Logan's evolution from a spirited girl into a determined lawyer and activist.
• Rich, evocative prose that captures the struggle and resilience of the African American experience.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 is a powerful and humorous middle grade novel that follows the "Weird Watsons" of Flint, Michigan. Ten-year-old Kenny Watson navigates the ups and downs of family life, dealing with his "official juvenile delinquent" older brother, Byron, and his bossy little sister, Joetta. When Byron's behavior goes too far, the family decides to take a road trip to Birmingham, Alabama, to stay with their strict Grandma Sands, hoping she can set him straight.

This story is a perfect choice for children who love realistic family dynamics and laugh-out-loud humor. However, as the Watsons travel south during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, the tone shifts toward a profound exploration of history and social justice. The book culminates in a life-altering event that forces the family to lean on one another for strength and healing. It is an ideal read for readers interested in American history, offering a deeply personal perspective on a pivotal era.

Highlights:

• A masterful blend of side-splitting humor and poignant historical drama.
• Relatable sibling relationships and strong family values.
• An accessible introduction to the Civil Rights Movement and 1960s history.
• Winner of the Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Award.