The Life of Stephen Lawrence

by Verna Allette Wilkins, Lynne Willey (Illustrations)

Stephen Lawrence was a bright, athletic, young man with high hopes for the future. He lived in south-east London with his parents, younger brother and younger sister. On April 22, 1993, he was brutally murdered while he was waiting for the bus. He was eighteen years old.
 
He didn't know his killers; his killers didn't know him.
 
This is his story. He will be remembered.
 
This paperback edition revised with added material about the trial, the legacy of Stephen Lawrence and a final note from Doreen Lawrence and a message from the CEO of the Stephen Lawrence Trust.

Genres: Nonfiction

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Verna Allette Wilkins is the author of 30 picture books and biographies for young people. Her books have been featured on National Curriculum and BBC children’s television, and been chosen among the Children’s Books of the Year. She was born in Grenada and lives in London.

Reviews

[Tahmin Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stephen Lawrence is someone that I believe all children should be aware of. In this particular book the author tells the story of Stephen Lawrence's life; from the moment he was born to the moment he was burried.

Although Stephen was brutally murdered, Wilkins softened the story by focusing more on Stephen's life before death. For example, she talks about Stephen's family life and how much he enjoyed and excelled at school. It is important that this book was produced this way, as it is aimed at primary children and therefore we as teachers must be sensitive towards their feelings.

This book can be used during a PSHE session as it focuses on how important it is to respect one another and how Stephen's primary teachers tried to convey this message. Furthermore, as teachers we can start up a debate as to what should be acceptable in society and what should not such as racial abuse.

Although, this book is designed for primary children, I personally would not recommend using this particular story for Early Years, Key Stage One or lower Key Stage Two children.

[Sharmin Begum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful little book which celebrates the life of Stephen Lawrence. It helps children to better understand who he was and why what happened to him was so wrong. A book that should be available in every classroom.

[Lois Carr-Nieves · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really lovely account of Stephen Lawrence’s life, told by his family, friends and teachers. This short read was a tribute to Stephen’s memory and it was very touching.

[Vivienne Westwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book that shows Stephen to be so much more than a byword for tragedy. Written for children, it's easily accessible for all ages & should be in classrooms as well as in homes.