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Coretta: The Story of Coretta Scott King: Commemorative Edition
In this first biography of Coretta Scott King, written by her friend Octavia Vivian, the reader meets a determined young girl who grew up in Alabama and worked her way through Antioch College only to discover that she was not allowed to teach in the white schools in Ohio. She pursued a musical career in Boston, where she met Martin Luther King, Jr. The Montgomery bus boycott in 1955 brought Dr. King and his wife into national prominence. Since then the nation has seen the beauty and composure of Coretta Scott King as she has continued to speak and act on behalf of civil rights. First published in 1970 by Fortress Press, this commemorative edition has been thoroughly updated, includes a black and white photo gallery, and is full of warmth and human interest, telling the story of Coretta Scott King from her childhood to her death in February 2006.
142 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2006
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About the author
Martin Luther King III
7 books11 followersSon of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and grandson of Martin Luther King Sr.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 10, 2017
This is a wonderful book for those who know the basics about her and want to learn more. I would definitely recommend starting here even if the book is written for a younger audience. Then, one can branch out and learn what they would like to know in more detail. A nice overview without a lot of political undertones. I like it.
February 20, 2019
I found an original 1970 copy of this book at a used book store. It is a short biography, but it is written by a woman with first hand knowledge of the events she writes about. I learned a lot about Coretta, Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. I came away with a much deeper respect for Coretta in her own right separate from her famous husband.
February 17, 2011
This is more a list of events than an in-depth biography. There were a few bits of new information, but the majority were repeats of things most MLK admirers already know. It often reminded me of a school assignment written by a student. No details, no nitty-gritty, not very many 'whys'. When I read a biography, I want to get inside the person's head a little....I want to understand the reasons why she did what she did...what her deepest disappointments were...what her faults or weaknesses were....what made that person tick.
There is little of that in this biography. Coretta is described in a saintly manner, the kind of 1950's perfect wife, mother, always supportive partner, etc... that was portrayed in so many old t.v. shows (à la June Cleaver). And although Coretta and MLK's lives were obviously intertwined, there seems to be just as much or more about MLK than about Coretta. I may try her autobiography: My Life with Martin Luther King Jr." next.
There is little of that in this biography. Coretta is described in a saintly manner, the kind of 1950's perfect wife, mother, always supportive partner, etc... that was portrayed in so many old t.v. shows (à la June Cleaver). And although Coretta and MLK's lives were obviously intertwined, there seems to be just as much or more about MLK than about Coretta. I may try her autobiography: My Life with Martin Luther King Jr." next.
February 22, 2017
Loved learning about Coretta... Didn't think the writing was fantastic, and was disappointed with how much of "her" story was actually about Martin (but tried to reconcile that with the fact that, hello, her husband was Martin Luther King, Jr. and obviously that was pretty significant in her life). Was pleased to find mentions toward the end about civil rights not just being her husband's cause, how she claimed it as her cause before she ever met him, and she continued working for decades after he died. She was a champion of all human rights, including those of homosexuals, the poor, women, and other (not just black) minorities. She was anti-war and anti-violence. I don't think I've ever read of someone who was so involved in so many different spheres, and I'm sad now to learn that she only died seven years ago, but I didn't know anything about her while she was alive. A truly amazing, inspirational woman.
October 13, 2016
As could be expected, this book is not about Coretta Scott King only. It also features her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King. She worked in partnership with him in his fight for civil rights. After his assassination, she relentlessly carried on the torch for social justice. There were challenges along the way, yet she was courageous. Ms. King echoed her message in the US and in foreign countries. This book should be read by everyone, as the struggle for social justice continues to be an issue today.
March 15, 2012
Strong, informative piece of work by Octavia Vivian. Mrs. King's courage, unconditional support, and persistence are highlighted. The similarities of Martin and Coretta were expressed. While, a vivid picture of the final living moments of Dr. King helped to deliver the behind the scenes look of the journey of Mr. and Mrs. King. Definitely a book I can see myself rereading in the future.
January 19, 2016
Content was great, topic transition could use some work. Overall it was a great book and it served the purpose for which I read it; to get a glimpse at how a woman supported such a great man. It tugged at my emotions occasionally. I especially enjoyed reading about how talented she was and the sacrifice she made to marry Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
January 10, 2009
A very good and very factual account of Coretta Scott King's life. Good references and an in-depth portrayal of Ms. King, not just as the shadow of her husband, but as herself.
August 29, 2012
Very good book. This author helps us to feel a little of what Coretta Scott had to endure to stand my Martin Luther King Jr. for the greater good of mankind.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews