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Ordinary People Change the World
I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
We can all be heroes. That’s the inspiring message of this New York Times Bestselling picture book biography series from historian and author Brad Meltzer.
Even as a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African-American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it—peacefully, with powerful words. He helped gather people together for nonviolent protests and marches, and he always spoke up about loving other human beings and doing what’s right. He spoke about the dream of a kinder future, and bravely led the way toward racial equality in America.
This lively, New York Times Bestselling biography series inspires kids to dream big, one great role model at a time. You’ll want to collect each book.
Even as a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African-American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it—peacefully, with powerful words. He helped gather people together for nonviolent protests and marches, and he always spoke up about loving other human beings and doing what’s right. He spoke about the dream of a kinder future, and bravely led the way toward racial equality in America.
This lively, New York Times Bestselling biography series inspires kids to dream big, one great role model at a time. You’ll want to collect each book.
40 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2016
39 people are currently reading
828 people want to read
About the author
Brad Meltzer
322 books7,371 followersBrad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
January 12, 2018
What a fantastic book. I enjoyed that the artist made MLK this little looking boy-man with a mustache the whole book. There was something relatable and powerful about that. No matter how small, we can still effect change.
I'll admit, I didn't know much about MLK's childhood. He had a white friend whose father made him stop playing with black kids. So sad, I mean all of what the segregation did to people was terrible. The separate schools was the worst, separate but equal was such a joke. I enjoyed how Brad tells this story. I feel he really shows the power and message of MLK.
I also didn't know he started college early and then entered seminary at age 19. That is incredible. I guess he really did love to read. I'm sure he would be a good reads fan today.
This is a great book for kids. My kids loved this and the pictures. It brought up so many questions for them and we had quite a discussion from this book. They didn't understand why people were treated differently in the past. That didn't make sense to them. This is a great book for kids to read about this man of peace.
I'll admit, I didn't know much about MLK's childhood. He had a white friend whose father made him stop playing with black kids. So sad, I mean all of what the segregation did to people was terrible. The separate schools was the worst, separate but equal was such a joke. I enjoyed how Brad tells this story. I feel he really shows the power and message of MLK.
I also didn't know he started college early and then entered seminary at age 19. That is incredible. I guess he really did love to read. I'm sure he would be a good reads fan today.
This is a great book for kids. My kids loved this and the pictures. It brought up so many questions for them and we had quite a discussion from this book. They didn't understand why people were treated differently in the past. That didn't make sense to them. This is a great book for kids to read about this man of peace.
November 30, 2022
I love this series! Well written (with just enough information) and fantastic art! Just enough information for small children; then they can track down books with more information. So important to remember what MLK stood for: our society seems to need his clear and strong voice now more than ever - Brad Meltzer is to be commended on this wonderful series.
February 6, 2021
A wonderful picture book (biography) about Martin Luther King, Jr., written by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos.
Black History Month Read
Black History Month Read
January 16, 2023
This book captivated my kids, taught them a lot about who Martin Luther King Jr. was, and why there is a National holiday in honor of him. I thought it was very well done.
February 8, 2016
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. is the latest offering in the Ordinary People Change the World book series for children by New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos. Each book in the Ordinary People Change the World series features one notable American (with the exception of Albert Einstein who was born in Germany but lived in the United States until his death). The individuals featured in the series are all "famous" and the reason for the notoriety varies. Included in the series are activists (I am Rosa Parks, I am Martin Luther King, Jr., I am Helen Keller), an athlete (e.g., I am Jackie Robinson), an actress (I am Lucille Ball), a scientist (I am Albert Einstein), an American President (I am Abraham Lincoln), and that famous female pilot, I am Amelia Earhart. Each of these individuals has the potential to be a great role model for children, although arguably, from my perspective, they are not all in the same class.
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. introduces the reader to a young (mustachioed) Martin who, we learn, was a great lover of books. We see the world through Martin's eyes at a time in American history when white children were told by their parents to not play with the "black children"; where white children went to the "good school" with beautiful playgrounds and a large library, and the black children went to the small, decrepit school with no desks; where black people wouldn't be served in restaurants; where black people had to give up their seat on the bus to white people; and so on. This was a moving part of the book and very well done with respect to introducing racial discrimination to children.
As Martin grows up (amusingly, he is always depicted as a young boy with a mustache in a suit presumably so children can identify with him?), we learn about his peaceful methods of activism including protests, speeches, letters, publications, and more. There are even speech bubbles where lines from Martin Luther King, Jr.'s most famous speech are included:
"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
I have a dream that one day ... little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers."
Overall, the quality and depth of the information presented and the tone of the book (which could have been very dark given the facts associated with Martin Luther King, Jr.) were appropriate for children (albeit a bit older, 5 to 10). The messages of justice, peace, and love we associate with Martin Luther King, Jr. are what is presented throughout the book. King's assassination (labelled "killed") is only mentioned in the timeline at the end of the book.
The illustrations in the book are superb and use a graphic novel-style presentation combining text, cartoon depictions of individuals, and speech bubbles. This seems to be a very kid-friendly format giving children lots to look at as they flip through the pages. The book is half the size of a regular picture book though and it may make it harder to use in a classroom setting or library reading circle where someone is reading the book aloud to a larger audience of children. It would be difficult to read the text in the speech bubbles, for example.
I highly recommend this book and the Ordinary People Change the World book series for children ages 5 to 10.
* This book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. *
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. introduces the reader to a young (mustachioed) Martin who, we learn, was a great lover of books. We see the world through Martin's eyes at a time in American history when white children were told by their parents to not play with the "black children"; where white children went to the "good school" with beautiful playgrounds and a large library, and the black children went to the small, decrepit school with no desks; where black people wouldn't be served in restaurants; where black people had to give up their seat on the bus to white people; and so on. This was a moving part of the book and very well done with respect to introducing racial discrimination to children.
As Martin grows up (amusingly, he is always depicted as a young boy with a mustache in a suit presumably so children can identify with him?), we learn about his peaceful methods of activism including protests, speeches, letters, publications, and more. There are even speech bubbles where lines from Martin Luther King, Jr.'s most famous speech are included:
"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
I have a dream that one day ... little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers."
Overall, the quality and depth of the information presented and the tone of the book (which could have been very dark given the facts associated with Martin Luther King, Jr.) were appropriate for children (albeit a bit older, 5 to 10). The messages of justice, peace, and love we associate with Martin Luther King, Jr. are what is presented throughout the book. King's assassination (labelled "killed") is only mentioned in the timeline at the end of the book.
The illustrations in the book are superb and use a graphic novel-style presentation combining text, cartoon depictions of individuals, and speech bubbles. This seems to be a very kid-friendly format giving children lots to look at as they flip through the pages. The book is half the size of a regular picture book though and it may make it harder to use in a classroom setting or library reading circle where someone is reading the book aloud to a larger audience of children. It would be difficult to read the text in the speech bubbles, for example.
I highly recommend this book and the Ordinary People Change the World book series for children ages 5 to 10.
* This book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. *
June 8, 2020
I really love this book. From how Martin Luther King Jr. was represented like a little boy who has a moustache. This makes him more relatable to children as he looks like them. This book enriched me of his life as a child. I didn’t know that he had a white friend, but he stopped playing with him, as his father stopped him playing with black children. This was one of the saddest part of the story. This is a great book for children to read, as it has lots of information and pictures.
January 11, 2016
Normally I wouldn't put a children's book on this list, but this series is so well done I couldn't help myself. Adults and students of all ages would benefit from this beautifully drawn book filled with outstanding historical information and packed full of great quotes from MLK'S most famous speeches.
January 15, 2017
Reread this one every year with my kids they love it!
This is a great book and is very easy to understand for kids to learn about who Martin Luther King Jr was and what he did. I don't know what the recommended age for this book is but I'd say its best for ages 8 and up.
This is a great book and is very easy to understand for kids to learn about who Martin Luther King Jr was and what he did. I don't know what the recommended age for this book is but I'd say its best for ages 8 and up.
February 10, 2023
I am Martin Luther King, Jr.
I stand for peace.
I stand for Justice.
I stand to help others.
I stand as proof that no matter how hard the struggle. We must fight for what is right and work to change whatever is wrong.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was a very powerful and inspirational man.
I stand for peace.
I stand for Justice.
I stand to help others.
I stand as proof that no matter how hard the struggle. We must fight for what is right and work to change whatever is wrong.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was a very powerful and inspirational man.
April 24, 2017
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. is part of a collection of biographies that cover the lives of many famous people throughout history. In this book, Martin Luther King, Jr. tells the story of his childhood, how he became interested in civil rights, how he got involved in leading people to a fair society, and how laws were changed because of peaceful protests and speeches. I really enjoyed this book because it's a elementary friendly way to talk about inequality and segregation and makes the issue of separate black and white facilities understandable for a young audience. The book includes dialogue in speech bubbles to represent conversations had or speeches Martin Luther Kind, Jr. gave. This book is a fairly easy read but encompasses some mature ideas and themes, so I would use it in a third or fourth grade classroom.
I might use this book in partnership with a social studies or history lesson. I would make it available for independent reading to my students, but I would also consider a read aloud because there are certainly conversation-worthy topics this book can spark. This would be an appropriate book to use for summarization and main idea- students would use key details to articulate a summary of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life.
This is a WOW book for me because it helps students to relate to a historical figure though a biography written in the first person. For example, the term "segregation" can seems foreign until you read about how Martin Luther Kind, Jr. wasn't allowed to go to the same school as his white friend or how he couldn't eat ice cream out of a nice bowl at the counter. The structure of print also make the book fun and interesting. I think the dialogue bubbles add an element of graphic novel to the book and it can be a fun way for students to connect pictures to text.
I might use this book in partnership with a social studies or history lesson. I would make it available for independent reading to my students, but I would also consider a read aloud because there are certainly conversation-worthy topics this book can spark. This would be an appropriate book to use for summarization and main idea- students would use key details to articulate a summary of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life.
This is a WOW book for me because it helps students to relate to a historical figure though a biography written in the first person. For example, the term "segregation" can seems foreign until you read about how Martin Luther Kind, Jr. wasn't allowed to go to the same school as his white friend or how he couldn't eat ice cream out of a nice bowl at the counter. The structure of print also make the book fun and interesting. I think the dialogue bubbles add an element of graphic novel to the book and it can be a fun way for students to connect pictures to text.
February 16, 2017
Meltzer, Brad. I am Martin Luther King, Jr. - Ordinary People Change the World
I thought Brad Meltzer did a magnificent job writing a beautiful, engaging, and yet fun story that teaches children how extraordinary Martin Luther King, Jr was. I starts off with how resilient he was as a kid. Every time he fell or got knocked down he always got back up. When his best friend tells him he can’t be friends anymore because their skin colors are different. Dr King he starts down a path to change the world, and create a society where all people are treated fairly and equal.
Since the book is was written for children I thought Meltzer did a great job of showing racism on a level children can understand. It’ a very easy read where children can learn valuable history lessons.
The book had excellent illustrations that almost mimic a graphic novel or comic book with all the speech bubbles. This seems to be a great way to engage the audience and make a serious topic more fun. If I had one critic of the book it was that Martin never grew up in the graphics. He was always shown as a small person with a mustache. While I can understand, they are trying to relate him to the children reading it they could have kept him in scale with the other adults in the book.
At the end of the day this is a excellent book that does a great job teaching young children about an important time in history and a great leader in a way they can grasp the knowledge. I’ll keep this as a tool to teach future classes.
I thought Brad Meltzer did a magnificent job writing a beautiful, engaging, and yet fun story that teaches children how extraordinary Martin Luther King, Jr was. I starts off with how resilient he was as a kid. Every time he fell or got knocked down he always got back up. When his best friend tells him he can’t be friends anymore because their skin colors are different. Dr King he starts down a path to change the world, and create a society where all people are treated fairly and equal.
Since the book is was written for children I thought Meltzer did a great job of showing racism on a level children can understand. It’ a very easy read where children can learn valuable history lessons.
The book had excellent illustrations that almost mimic a graphic novel or comic book with all the speech bubbles. This seems to be a great way to engage the audience and make a serious topic more fun. If I had one critic of the book it was that Martin never grew up in the graphics. He was always shown as a small person with a mustache. While I can understand, they are trying to relate him to the children reading it they could have kept him in scale with the other adults in the book.
At the end of the day this is a excellent book that does a great job teaching young children about an important time in history and a great leader in a way they can grasp the knowledge. I’ll keep this as a tool to teach future classes.
January 12, 2016
I Am Martin Luther King, Jr is an absolutely wonderful picture book about a man who inspired so many.
Martin Luther King, Jr was such an incredible man who fought for fairness and equality among all people despite the color of their skin or their gender. Author Brad Meltzer does a beautiful job of creating a fun story that teaches children just how remarkable Martin Luther King, Jr was.
have to admit, although I am a mother of four and have helped my children research and write about Martin Luther King, Jr numerous times, I learned a few new facts from the book like his first friend was a white boy and that he was forced to give up his seat on a city bus..
The story is well organized and engaging. The fantastic illustrations by Christopher Eliopoulos enhance this lively and educational book.
I highly recommend picking up a copy. You should also check out the other fabulous books in the Ordinary People Change the World Series.
Martin Luther King, Jr was such an incredible man who fought for fairness and equality among all people despite the color of their skin or their gender. Author Brad Meltzer does a beautiful job of creating a fun story that teaches children just how remarkable Martin Luther King, Jr was.
have to admit, although I am a mother of four and have helped my children research and write about Martin Luther King, Jr numerous times, I learned a few new facts from the book like his first friend was a white boy and that he was forced to give up his seat on a city bus..
The story is well organized and engaging. The fantastic illustrations by Christopher Eliopoulos enhance this lively and educational book.
I highly recommend picking up a copy. You should also check out the other fabulous books in the Ordinary People Change the World Series.
October 11, 2017
First person (though not autobiographical) perspective of Martin Luther King's life from childhood through the Selma March. I have several concerns; one is the characterization of MLK--he's presented as a oddly-sized "man boy" who apparently does not age in appearance throughout the text. We first meet him as a young boy dressed in a black suit with a mustache; as he grows older he stature remains the same. At the end of the book, he is the size of child and other adults appear to overpower him. I find this imagery demeaning. In addition, I share other reviewers' concerns about the use of speech bubbles; it is difficult to determine MLK's actual words and those made up by the author (thus blurring the lines between non-fiction and fiction). I suggest skipping this book and heading straight to Martin's Big Words, the award-winning biography by Doreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier.
March 26, 2016
Ordinary People Change World is a new biographical picture book series from Brad Meltzer, best known as a bestselling author of adult thrillers. Positive and inspiring for preschoolers. Christopher Eliopoulos’ cute illustrations just add another layer of appeal!
As the series progresses, I think the books just become better. Even when reading about someone familiar (Martin Luther King, Jr.), I learned something new and can't help but being amazed by the person I'm reading about. And, when I'm reading about someone new (Helen Keller), I want to learn more.
As the series progresses, I think the books just become better. Even when reading about someone familiar (Martin Luther King, Jr.), I learned something new and can't help but being amazed by the person I'm reading about. And, when I'm reading about someone new (Helen Keller), I want to learn more.
January 16, 2016
While I like the way Meltzer grounds this biography in MLK's childhood, the text seems very wordy/long for a small, young-looking picture book. I'm also concerned about nonfiction written in the voice of MLK without actually using his words.
May 8, 2018
This was a great book. The illustrations were adorable and it told an important story well.
February 11, 2019
WOW! I think this biography should be read in every classroom in Grades 3-5, especially before Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This story documents MLK's life from start to finish, touching on every important event in and about his life that led to the change he brought to this world. In our Social Studies methods course, we have been speaking a lot about "change agents" and how that term better encompasses who we would usually call a "hero." By calling our heroes "change agents," we are recognizing all of the efforts that went into the change they made a way for. We are not just recognizing one act of heroism, we are recognizing the individual and giving praise to them for their dedication to change.
Instructional Ideas: I would read this story aloud to students in Grades 3-5 as an introduction to our study on "Change Agents." I think I would start this unit in February, as February is Black History Month. There were many African Americans who fought for and even risked their lives for change who we should recognize as change agents. While I was reading aloud to students, I would model how I would pick out important events in MLK's life that led him to be a change agent. I would write my response in sticky notes and post them in the book. After reading this story aloud to students, I would have the students go back to their tables where they would read another "I am" book with their partners. Working with their partners, the students would work to annotate the text with sticky notes about important details in the person's life that made them a change agent.
Another idea would be to read the story aloud to students before MLK Day and have the students research more about MLK's life during their social studies block. They could then respond to the prompt, "Why do you think it's important that we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day?"
During their social studies block, you could also show a video clip about MLK Day of Service, encouraging students to use the holiday to make a difference. The students could write about how they would use the Day of Service to make a difference and share their responses with the class.
Instructional Ideas: I would read this story aloud to students in Grades 3-5 as an introduction to our study on "Change Agents." I think I would start this unit in February, as February is Black History Month. There were many African Americans who fought for and even risked their lives for change who we should recognize as change agents. While I was reading aloud to students, I would model how I would pick out important events in MLK's life that led him to be a change agent. I would write my response in sticky notes and post them in the book. After reading this story aloud to students, I would have the students go back to their tables where they would read another "I am" book with their partners. Working with their partners, the students would work to annotate the text with sticky notes about important details in the person's life that made them a change agent.
Another idea would be to read the story aloud to students before MLK Day and have the students research more about MLK's life during their social studies block. They could then respond to the prompt, "Why do you think it's important that we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day?"
During their social studies block, you could also show a video clip about MLK Day of Service, encouraging students to use the holiday to make a difference. The students could write about how they would use the Day of Service to make a difference and share their responses with the class.
February 17, 2017
This book is part of the “Ordinary People Change the World” series, which highlights amazing actions done by many people for justice and kindness throughout history.
My kids and I have been reading a lot about Martin Luther King, Jr. over the past year, and they were thrilled that we’d get to read and review this book.
The narrative is a bit longer for a picture book, so this book (and series) is especially better suited for ages 5 and up. This book included a lot of information within its pages though, which we all liked and appreciated. My kids enjoyed how the narrative was written as if Martin Luther King was talking to them, telling us his story. They also enjoyed the illustration style and formatting of having some folks talk in dialogue bubbles that added to the narrative. These spots allow for perfect places to take turns reading out loud.
The material sparks conversations on fair treatment and justice, even for the younger age group. Starting in childhood also helps younger readers relate what happened to minorities. I expected more back matter at the end of the book, although it makes since that the back matter is condensed since the narrative highlights many events within MLK Jr.’s life. I’m especially glad the book states, “…remember how far we’ve come. And how much more work there is to do.” The ending spread empowers readers to know our voices can come together to support each other.
I personally found the illustration choice of keeping Martin Luther King Jr. as child-sized throughout the book distracting rather than helpful. My kids noticed it too (as my daughter noted above), but it also didn’t bother them. (This is a style choice throughout the whole series, so it’s something I believe most readers can get used to.) The illustrations are colorful and interesting. We’ll definitely be checking out more of this series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book as a MCBD reviewer. All opinions expressed are my own, and this is my honest review.
My kids and I have been reading a lot about Martin Luther King, Jr. over the past year, and they were thrilled that we’d get to read and review this book.
The narrative is a bit longer for a picture book, so this book (and series) is especially better suited for ages 5 and up. This book included a lot of information within its pages though, which we all liked and appreciated. My kids enjoyed how the narrative was written as if Martin Luther King was talking to them, telling us his story. They also enjoyed the illustration style and formatting of having some folks talk in dialogue bubbles that added to the narrative. These spots allow for perfect places to take turns reading out loud.
The material sparks conversations on fair treatment and justice, even for the younger age group. Starting in childhood also helps younger readers relate what happened to minorities. I expected more back matter at the end of the book, although it makes since that the back matter is condensed since the narrative highlights many events within MLK Jr.’s life. I’m especially glad the book states, “…remember how far we’ve come. And how much more work there is to do.” The ending spread empowers readers to know our voices can come together to support each other.
I personally found the illustration choice of keeping Martin Luther King Jr. as child-sized throughout the book distracting rather than helpful. My kids noticed it too (as my daughter noted above), but it also didn’t bother them. (This is a style choice throughout the whole series, so it’s something I believe most readers can get used to.) The illustrations are colorful and interesting. We’ll definitely be checking out more of this series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book as a MCBD reviewer. All opinions expressed are my own, and this is my honest review.
February 19, 2019
We love this entire series.
May 23, 2017
1) Summary: This book is about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It takes the reader back all the way to his childhood and shows how even when he was little he wanted to change the world. He goes on to change the nation through peaceful protesting. He is a man who never gave up and who never shied away from adversity.
2) Major Themes: The major themes of this story is perseverance, resilience, and equality.
3) Personal Response: I, as most people, very much admire Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. I've always thought of him as a very special person, so I enjoyed getting to read about him through the lens of a child.
4) Why I recommend it: I think that this book would be very beneficial to help to introduce kids to King's legacy. What he did and what he was fighting again is a very serious matter that many kids may be too baffled by. This book does a good job of simplifying his movement without minimizing what he did.
2) Major Themes: The major themes of this story is perseverance, resilience, and equality.
3) Personal Response: I, as most people, very much admire Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. I've always thought of him as a very special person, so I enjoyed getting to read about him through the lens of a child.
4) Why I recommend it: I think that this book would be very beneficial to help to introduce kids to King's legacy. What he did and what he was fighting again is a very serious matter that many kids may be too baffled by. This book does a good job of simplifying his movement without minimizing what he did.
December 4, 2017
I Am Martin Luther King Jr. Is a biography for children it’s intended audience is for children in grades PreK-2nd. This biography written by Brad Meltzer is about Martin Luther King Junior and the difficulty that he went through as a child it goes into detail about his first experience of being treated unfairly because he was black. The story goes on to explain that even as he grew up and had children they had to go through the same thing he’s out which made him work harder to change things.
I’ve rated this book at 5 stars because although the book is educational and informative, it is still capturing of its audience. The illustrations enhances the interest in this amazing story of the great Martin Luther King Jr. It was unique how King was illustrated the same why throughout the whole book although times had changed.
This biography would definitely be appealing to young because it explains everything on a child’s level. Great book!
I’ve rated this book at 5 stars because although the book is educational and informative, it is still capturing of its audience. The illustrations enhances the interest in this amazing story of the great Martin Luther King Jr. It was unique how King was illustrated the same why throughout the whole book although times had changed.
This biography would definitely be appealing to young because it explains everything on a child’s level. Great book!
October 26, 2016
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer is one of the many books in the Ordinary People Change the World series. This book makes the perfect biography that can be read aloud to or read individually by grades kindergarten through third. This book is about the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. and how brave of a person he was for standing up and taking action for what he believed in. This book uses adorable illustrations and also provides a timeline of events in Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life. Because MLK fought for rights based on race, the content in this book may be concerning to some as it pertains to unfair treatment of the African American race.
I am completely in love with this little series of books! Such a great, factual and informational resource for young readers. (The illustrations in it are so cute!)
I am completely in love with this little series of books! Such a great, factual and informational resource for young readers. (The illustrations in it are so cute!)
December 23, 2017
My daughter and I loved reading this book together tonight. Meltzer’s story of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is perfectly rendered to inspire a child, and the illustrations by Christopher Eliopoulos are excellent.
While reading I Am Martin Luther King, Jr., my daughter commented on all the wrongs and injustices experienced by King and fellow black men, women, and children. We talked about how things were and the importance of remembering those things and working to reverse them. She now wants to read Letter from a Birmingham Jail.
The only complaint, voiced by my daughter, is, “Why is he small,” the same comment she made when we read I Am Jane Goodall. Eliopoulos draws the main characters as a mixture of child and adult from beginning to end, which is strange to my daughter, who thinks an adult should look like an adult.
While reading I Am Martin Luther King, Jr., my daughter commented on all the wrongs and injustices experienced by King and fellow black men, women, and children. We talked about how things were and the importance of remembering those things and working to reverse them. She now wants to read Letter from a Birmingham Jail.
The only complaint, voiced by my daughter, is, “Why is he small,” the same comment she made when we read I Am Jane Goodall. Eliopoulos draws the main characters as a mixture of child and adult from beginning to end, which is strange to my daughter, who thinks an adult should look like an adult.
February 19, 2018
I really do just love this whole series of biographies.
MLK, Jr. turned out to be a but longer than some of the other titles in this series, but not surprising considering just how much he did in his lifetime. It was also a challenging day to get through any read aloud, my scheduled visit falling on Valentine's Day.
Our discussion afterwards involved the importance of the non-violent methods used during the Civil Rights Movement, and how money can be a big motivator for businesses to change policies. The kids were reasonably outraged at what happened to those involved in the Children's March. This class also had questions about why the artist drew the title character so different from every other character.
When bringing history, and the people who lived it to life, these books are a wonderful place to start.
MLK, Jr. turned out to be a but longer than some of the other titles in this series, but not surprising considering just how much he did in his lifetime. It was also a challenging day to get through any read aloud, my scheduled visit falling on Valentine's Day.
Our discussion afterwards involved the importance of the non-violent methods used during the Civil Rights Movement, and how money can be a big motivator for businesses to change policies. The kids were reasonably outraged at what happened to those involved in the Children's March. This class also had questions about why the artist drew the title character so different from every other character.
When bringing history, and the people who lived it to life, these books are a wonderful place to start.
January 26, 2016
Heroes come in all different shapes and sizes. They live in various places, and have over come a variety of different challenges. If we look closely, we can see they live all around us. Modern day heroes do exist. Sometimes the best heroes are the ones that make up our own modern day history.
"The time is always right to do right." - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. is a hero I've always admired. His lessons on love, standing up for something you believe in, doing good, forgiving, and being immovable in your faith and convictions, is something that has always inspired me. He is proof that when we stand together, we can accomplish great things.
Read my FULL REVIEW HERE http://mundiekids.blogspot.com/2016/0...
"The time is always right to do right." - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. is a hero I've always admired. His lessons on love, standing up for something you believe in, doing good, forgiving, and being immovable in your faith and convictions, is something that has always inspired me. He is proof that when we stand together, we can accomplish great things.
Read my FULL REVIEW HERE http://mundiekids.blogspot.com/2016/0...
August 8, 2017
As with some of the other books in this wonderful series, I didn't know a lot about MLK Jr before I read this and even as an adult, I found it really interesting. It's written in a simple form that kids can understand but it's appealing to all ages. I learned quite a bit about this man and the things that he did. If you read "I am Rosa Parks" which is another wonderful book in this series, this MLK "version" parallels it, as some of the same topics (segregation and Rosa Parks herself) are mentioned here. It's not a repeat of the information, but rather a retelling of it. I love the illustrations in this and the other books in this series and I'm so glad I found them! These are amazing books for children and adults alike!
May 17, 2017
I am loving this series of picture book biographies! This one, in particular, shed new light on a notable figure I thought I already knew a lot about. Berry loved this one, too! I'd be reading another book and she'd reach for this one instead. <3 The best books (to me) are those that make you want to know more about the subject; after finishing this one I know I need to read the writings of Dr. King. His message of love over hate is a beautiful one and something I am excited to share with Berry as she grows up.
October 2, 2017
This seems to be historically accurate and it does touch on the thoughts and conflicts behind the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. I enjoyed the direct quotes from some of MLK Jr.'s most famous speeches. However, it did seem oversimplified at times. I also did not like how Martin Luther King Jr. was portrayed in the illustrations. When he is made to appear cartoon-like and significantly short, it makes it seem that this is a fictional story or that he is young or possibly immature. I would prefer students to see a realistic depiction of this important historical figure.
October 20, 2017
This amazing book aimed at children around the ages of 4 to 6 covers the life of Martin Luther King Jr. I honestly think this is a must read for children. The book goes over some of the most important and memorable events occurring during Dr. King's life that to this day continue to be a source of inspiration.
Originally read this book in February of 2016 and I loved the way this book inspired a dialogue as the children asked questions about why Dr. King did the things he did and why he fought for equality.
Rating 5 out of 5
Read@Book
Originally read this book in February of 2016 and I loved the way this book inspired a dialogue as the children asked questions about why Dr. King did the things he did and why he fought for equality.
Rating 5 out of 5
Read@Book
June 13, 2017
A great informational book about MLK jr. if talks about his life and struggles during the civil rights movement. The illustrations go right along with the story line. A great book for an older child like 1st grade through 5th grade. I did introduce this book to preschoolers, I talked more about the pictures and gave them tidbits of the story. They enjoyed especially the picture of him falling down the stairs. They got a kick out of that.
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