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Thurgood
Thurgood Marshall--the first black justice on the Supreme Court and a giant of the civil rights movement--jumps to life in this inspiring picture-book biography from an award-winning author and six-time Coretta Scott King, four-time Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator.
Thurgood Marshall was a born lawyer--the loudest talker, funniest joke teller, and best arguer from the time he was a kid growing up in Baltimore in the early 1900s. He would go on to become the star of his high school and college debate teams, a stellar law student at Howard University, and, as a lawyer, a one-man weapon against the discriminatory laws against black Americans. After only two years at the NAACP, he was their top lawyer and had earned himself the nickname Mr. Civil Rights. He argued--and won--cases before the Supreme Court, including one of the most important cases in American Brown v Board of Education . And he became the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice in history.
Like its subject, here is a biography that crackles with energy and intensity--a great introduction to a great man.
A Washington Post Best Book of the Year
A Bank Street Best Book of the Year
A Booklist Youth Editor’s Choice Selection
A Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature’s Best Book
Thurgood Marshall was a born lawyer--the loudest talker, funniest joke teller, and best arguer from the time he was a kid growing up in Baltimore in the early 1900s. He would go on to become the star of his high school and college debate teams, a stellar law student at Howard University, and, as a lawyer, a one-man weapon against the discriminatory laws against black Americans. After only two years at the NAACP, he was their top lawyer and had earned himself the nickname Mr. Civil Rights. He argued--and won--cases before the Supreme Court, including one of the most important cases in American Brown v Board of Education . And he became the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice in history.
Like its subject, here is a biography that crackles with energy and intensity--a great introduction to a great man.
A Washington Post Best Book of the Year
A Bank Street Best Book of the Year
A Booklist Youth Editor’s Choice Selection
A Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature’s Best Book
40 pages, Hardcover
First published September 3, 2019
About the author
Jonah Winter
68 books83 followersJonah Winter is the celebrated author of many picture book biographies, including Barack, which was a New York Times bestseller. His books include Here Comes the Garbage Barge, Sonia Sotomayor, Roberto Clemente, and more. A poet and a painter, Mr. Winter divides his time between Santa Fe and a small town in Pennsylvania.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 3, 2021
Picture book biography on Thurgood Marshall, first African-American justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Black History Month Read
Black History Month Read
September 19, 2019
From the time he was a small boy, Thurgood Marshall was destined to be a lawyer. He even convinced his parents to have his name legally changed from Thoroughgood to Thurgood at age six. Thurgood faced racism growing up in Baltimore in the 1920’s. He had to attend the overcrowded Colored High School which had no library, gym or cafeteria. His father worked at jobs where he served wealthy white customers, including at a country club that did not allow black people to be members. His father also taught him to debate and argue ideas. When he attended Lincoln University, Thurgood was loud, funny and a great arguer. He went to law school at Howard University where he learned to fight for civil rights in court. His first major legal fight was to force his top pick law school to accept black students. Again and again, Thurgood fought to create laws that focused on equality for all.
A picture book biography that tells the story of the youth and upbringing and early legal cases of the first African American on the Supreme Court, this book really celebrates how he became a weapon for civil rights. Winter makes sure to keep the inherent racism in the society at the forefront, pointing out moments in Thurgood’s life when he was targeted and almost killed. The resilience and determination on display throughout his life is inspiring.
Collier’s art is done in a mix of watercolor and collage. Using patterns and textures, Collier builds entire worlds from paper, from a ruined movie theater to haunting segregated schools. The illustrations are powerful and add much to this story of racism and fighting back.
Strong and compelling, this biography belongs in every library. Appropriate for ages 7-10.
A picture book biography that tells the story of the youth and upbringing and early legal cases of the first African American on the Supreme Court, this book really celebrates how he became a weapon for civil rights. Winter makes sure to keep the inherent racism in the society at the forefront, pointing out moments in Thurgood’s life when he was targeted and almost killed. The resilience and determination on display throughout his life is inspiring.
Collier’s art is done in a mix of watercolor and collage. Using patterns and textures, Collier builds entire worlds from paper, from a ruined movie theater to haunting segregated schools. The illustrations are powerful and add much to this story of racism and fighting back.
Strong and compelling, this biography belongs in every library. Appropriate for ages 7-10.
November 16, 2019
Even though this is for children I learned a few more things about Mr. Marshall from this book. Great introduction for young readers.
January 18, 2020
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
January 13, 2021
"Normally, you don’t look at a sandbox full of toddlers and say, ‘Little Jimmy there is going to become a world-famous lawyer!’ But there was this little boy named Thoroughgood who was by all accounts a born lawyer. The first evidence? At age six, he convinced his parents to legally change his name—to Thurgood.”
Stunning illustrations. Well written. More than worthy of an interactive read aloud with 2nd through 6th grade students. Inspiring in so many ways.
Winter presents the “FACTS” (in caps and bold in the text) – describing the state of life in the land of Jim Crow and specific incidents in Thurgood’s life. Each fact leads into a description narrative of Thurgood’s rise in the world. Winter develops clear tension as he describes the racism faced by Thurgood and African Americans in the first part of the 20th century and Thurgood’s responses—some civil disobedience but mostly challenging laws in the court system and getting those laws changed as a result. “He would hone himself into a one-man weapon to destroy the laws that hurt black people.” THIS IS HOW THURGOOD’S WORK SHAPED OUR COUNTRY. Winters makes this all very clear—describing the times, the cases that went to court, etc.—in a student-friendly way.
Collier’s watercolor and collage ILLUSTRATIONS ARE STUNNING. Young people can just look at the illustrations and get a feel for Thurgood’s life—what he experienced in a racist society, his brilliance, the intensity of his work. Check out the two-page spread that describes how, from the window of his high school, Thurgood could hear the white cops beating confessions out of black people. There are images of students hard at work, of Thurgood looking out the window, an explosive like image representing the sound from across the street, AND a bulletin board with papers posted – with type written words like sunshine, I miss, cool, party, forever sweetheart, miss you, happy. Why? What a beautiful two-page illustration for students to grapple with and discuss.
Don’t skip the author’s note. Winter addresses how there’s so much more about Thurgood they could have included in the book…but there just weren’t enough pages. ALSO Jonah Winter alludes to his research just before the title page in a “special thanks” to Bryan Stevenson, “the Thurgood Marshall of our era” who is the founder of the Equal Justice Initiative and author of Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption.
SUGGESTIONS FOR AN INTERACTIVE READ ALOUD:
• Read aloud for the pure joy of hearing Winter’s words spoken and looking closely at Collier’s illustrations.
• Read aloud again and pause along the way to facilitate student led discussions:
o Stop at the two-page layout I described earlier of Thurgood looking out the window at his school – pose the questions, “What do you notice?” and “Why do you think Collier, the illustrator, included that particular image?” and “What does this illustration reveal about Thurgood and that period of time?”
o There are three pages of text that reveal the influence of Thurgood’s father. You might ask, “How did Thurgood’s dad play a role in who Thurgood would become later in life?”
o At the beginning of the read aloud, define a word like courage, determination, or perseverance – and then ask students to give you a thumb up during the read aloud when they hear a part that reveals this trait of Thurgood’s. Encourage student-led groups to turn and talk about what just happened in the text and how that reveals that particular trait.
There’s so much more you could do with this book. In WRITING WORKSHOP – Winter’s formatting— capitalizing FACT and later in the book INJUSTICE and JUSTICE – to present the content might be food for thought as students research and write about other historical figures or current civil rights activists like Bryan Stevenson.
I would NOT shy away from using this with older students—6th through 8th. It’s an excellent introduction to Marshall’s life and impact.
One last thought – if you don’t know much about Thurgood Marshall, I’d highly recommend Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America by Gilbert King which won the Pulitzer Prize. Gripping and really makes a strong case for the idea that Marshall’s brilliance (change the country via the court system) truly shaped our country for the better.
Stunning illustrations. Well written. More than worthy of an interactive read aloud with 2nd through 6th grade students. Inspiring in so many ways.
Winter presents the “FACTS” (in caps and bold in the text) – describing the state of life in the land of Jim Crow and specific incidents in Thurgood’s life. Each fact leads into a description narrative of Thurgood’s rise in the world. Winter develops clear tension as he describes the racism faced by Thurgood and African Americans in the first part of the 20th century and Thurgood’s responses—some civil disobedience but mostly challenging laws in the court system and getting those laws changed as a result. “He would hone himself into a one-man weapon to destroy the laws that hurt black people.” THIS IS HOW THURGOOD’S WORK SHAPED OUR COUNTRY. Winters makes this all very clear—describing the times, the cases that went to court, etc.—in a student-friendly way.
Collier’s watercolor and collage ILLUSTRATIONS ARE STUNNING. Young people can just look at the illustrations and get a feel for Thurgood’s life—what he experienced in a racist society, his brilliance, the intensity of his work. Check out the two-page spread that describes how, from the window of his high school, Thurgood could hear the white cops beating confessions out of black people. There are images of students hard at work, of Thurgood looking out the window, an explosive like image representing the sound from across the street, AND a bulletin board with papers posted – with type written words like sunshine, I miss, cool, party, forever sweetheart, miss you, happy. Why? What a beautiful two-page illustration for students to grapple with and discuss.
Don’t skip the author’s note. Winter addresses how there’s so much more about Thurgood they could have included in the book…but there just weren’t enough pages. ALSO Jonah Winter alludes to his research just before the title page in a “special thanks” to Bryan Stevenson, “the Thurgood Marshall of our era” who is the founder of the Equal Justice Initiative and author of Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption.
SUGGESTIONS FOR AN INTERACTIVE READ ALOUD:
• Read aloud for the pure joy of hearing Winter’s words spoken and looking closely at Collier’s illustrations.
• Read aloud again and pause along the way to facilitate student led discussions:
o Stop at the two-page layout I described earlier of Thurgood looking out the window at his school – pose the questions, “What do you notice?” and “Why do you think Collier, the illustrator, included that particular image?” and “What does this illustration reveal about Thurgood and that period of time?”
o There are three pages of text that reveal the influence of Thurgood’s father. You might ask, “How did Thurgood’s dad play a role in who Thurgood would become later in life?”
o At the beginning of the read aloud, define a word like courage, determination, or perseverance – and then ask students to give you a thumb up during the read aloud when they hear a part that reveals this trait of Thurgood’s. Encourage student-led groups to turn and talk about what just happened in the text and how that reveals that particular trait.
There’s so much more you could do with this book. In WRITING WORKSHOP – Winter’s formatting— capitalizing FACT and later in the book INJUSTICE and JUSTICE – to present the content might be food for thought as students research and write about other historical figures or current civil rights activists like Bryan Stevenson.
I would NOT shy away from using this with older students—6th through 8th. It’s an excellent introduction to Marshall’s life and impact.
One last thought – if you don’t know much about Thurgood Marshall, I’d highly recommend Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America by Gilbert King which won the Pulitzer Prize. Gripping and really makes a strong case for the idea that Marshall’s brilliance (change the country via the court system) truly shaped our country for the better.
July 20, 2020
Thurgood is a children's picture book written by Jonah Winter and illustrated by Bryan Collier. It centers on the life journey of the first African American to serve on the United States Supreme Court and the incidents that formed him.
Thurgood Marshall was an American lawyer and civil rights activist who served as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from October 1967 until October 1991. Marshall was the Court's first African-American justice. Prior to his judicial service, he successfully argued several cases before the Supreme Court, including Brown v. Board of Education.
Winter's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. In percussive text that combines the pacing of a courtroom recital with plainspoken accessibility, Winter covers essential anecdotes in Marshall's life, which influenced his life to become the first African-American Supreme Court Justice. Backmatter includes an author's note and photographs. Collier's watercolor collages with subtly visible seams reflect the deep complexities of lives shaped by a fractured society, representing multifaceted experience, deep emotion, and irresistible forward motion.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It details the life of Thurgood Marshall, which covers his arrest as a 15-year-old for defending himself from a bigot and his rejection from the University of Maryland. These hammer home the realities of existence in a segregated United States, and the injustices Marshall saw and fought in the great, ongoing battles for a fair and just society.
All in all, Thurgood is a wonderfully written biography with a larger-than-life subject which is neatly captured in text and images.
Thurgood Marshall was an American lawyer and civil rights activist who served as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from October 1967 until October 1991. Marshall was the Court's first African-American justice. Prior to his judicial service, he successfully argued several cases before the Supreme Court, including Brown v. Board of Education.
Winter's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. In percussive text that combines the pacing of a courtroom recital with plainspoken accessibility, Winter covers essential anecdotes in Marshall's life, which influenced his life to become the first African-American Supreme Court Justice. Backmatter includes an author's note and photographs. Collier's watercolor collages with subtly visible seams reflect the deep complexities of lives shaped by a fractured society, representing multifaceted experience, deep emotion, and irresistible forward motion.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It details the life of Thurgood Marshall, which covers his arrest as a 15-year-old for defending himself from a bigot and his rejection from the University of Maryland. These hammer home the realities of existence in a segregated United States, and the injustices Marshall saw and fought in the great, ongoing battles for a fair and just society.
All in all, Thurgood is a wonderfully written biography with a larger-than-life subject which is neatly captured in text and images.
December 21, 2019
Memorable watercolor and collage illustrations complement the story of civil rights activist Thurgood Marshall. He is credited with arguing successfully 43 civil rights cases in front of the Supreme Court. The author's repeated use of the term "fact" to highlight important moments and realizations in Marshall's formative years works well in a biography devoted to a lawyer who would go on to argue cases based on those facts, and even while an emotional appeal might be warranted, it would be facts that would carry the day. The conversational tone of the narrative makes the story quite personal and involving for young readers, and the author cleverly builds suspense by using the headings of "justice" and "injustice" as Marshall pulls together the case that will become Brown v. Board of Education and then later becomes a justice of that very same Supreme Court, the first black man to be appointed to the court. Back matter includes photos of Thurgood Marshall and additional information about his career. I cannot imagine anyone reading this picture book and not coming away feeling impressed at his accomplishments and his relentless chipping away at segregation. What a game-changer he was! This book is an excellent addition to a collection devoted to civil rights, integration, individuals who made a difference. History lovers will certainly want to add it to their collection.
December 27, 2019
Stunning artwork and text that perfectly explains the complexities of fighting racism during Jim Crow combine to make this an excellent picture book biography. Winter aligns Thurgood Marshall’s family upbringing with his personal drive and way with words to show how he fought injustice. “Facts” on experiences that African Americans of the time dealt with every day are related in clear, expository writing that does not mince words about the pain it caused. Thurgood’s rise through the ranks of the NAACP to his landmark arguments in Brown v. Board of Education, and then his election to the Supreme Court as the first black justice, make for very moving reading. Bryan Collier’s watercolor and collage art make every page dramatic, playing with shadows and light, and interposing unexpected fantastical elements to emphasize a moment. I found the artwork on the book’s cover to be immensely moving. The front shows an image of Lady Liberty, but she is mostly obscured by white paint – is the white wash being eroded or enhanced? And the back cover shows a banner, such as where a flag would fly, with the words “A Man was Lynched Yesterday” on it. Wow.
September 9, 2020
Thurgood Marshall--the first black justice on the Supreme Court and a giant of the civil rights movement--jumps to life in this inspiring picture-book biography from an award-winning author and six-time Coretta Scott King, four-time Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator.
Thurgood Marshall was a born lawyer--the loudest talker, funniest joke teller, and best arguer from the time he was a kid growing up in Baltimore in the early 1900s. He would go on to become the star of his high school and college debate teams, a stellar law student at Howard University, and, as a lawyer, a one-man weapon against the discriminatory laws against black Americans. After only two years at the NAACP, he was their top lawyer and had earned himself the nickname Mr. Civil Rights. He argued--and won--cases before the Supreme Court, including one of the most important cases in American history: Brown v Board of Education. And he became the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice in history.
Like its subject, here is a biography that crackles with energy and intensity--a great introduction to a great man
Thurgood Marshall was a born lawyer--the loudest talker, funniest joke teller, and best arguer from the time he was a kid growing up in Baltimore in the early 1900s. He would go on to become the star of his high school and college debate teams, a stellar law student at Howard University, and, as a lawyer, a one-man weapon against the discriminatory laws against black Americans. After only two years at the NAACP, he was their top lawyer and had earned himself the nickname Mr. Civil Rights. He argued--and won--cases before the Supreme Court, including one of the most important cases in American history: Brown v Board of Education. And he became the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice in history.
Like its subject, here is a biography that crackles with energy and intensity--a great introduction to a great man
December 16, 2020
Fascinating. I love the approachability and formatting of this book. It pulls no punches, acknowledging the complete unfairness of the treatment, legal and illegal, of Black people in the U.S., making sure that readers know that Thurgood was angry and had every right to be, and how he channeled that anger into change, fighting that law at every turn. I also completely adore that six-year old Thurgood convinced his parents to legally change his name, which I think captures what a force of nature he must have been, from the beginning. I was impressed that when the author pointed out facts, he did so without hedging or making excuses for the time and society. FACT: This treatment was wrong, even when people accepted it.
December 7, 2019
Reading this book reminded me of how I felt while watching the recent movie about Harriet Tubman-proud of the person portrayed, but ashamed of how our country has treated many of its citizens. Younger readers who have a chance to read or be read this book, will get a very clear picture of how difficult life was for Black Americans not so long ago (and for many even today!). It's hard to imagine having the will and strength of character to stand up and fight through the courts as Thurgood did for so many years, and some of the more spirited youngsters will applaud his acts of civil (and not so civil) disobedience. The wonderful illustrations support visually what the text tells us. This is another extremely well done juvenile biography that deserves a place in as many school and public libraries as possible.
March 30, 2020
I imagine many people know Thurgood Marshall as being the first black justice on the Supreme Court, but there were many other things that happened in his lifetime. This picture book attempts to bring his experiences to life from his childhood on up. He was loud, he liked to joke, and he didn’t mind standing up for himself. But over time he learned the importance of carefully changing laws and making lasting differences for everyone. The Author’s Note explains that there’s no way to fit the importance of Thurgood’s work into one 40-paged children’s book. It goes on to share a few more important details that children should know about his life. The artwork in this book was rendered in watercolor and collage.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
October 9, 2019
Great book for giving you the highlights about Thurgood Marshall. Good jumping off point.
February 9, 2020
This is a nice beginning book into the life and work of Thurgood Marshall. I am becoming a huge fan of author Jonah Winter. He's done a great job with this biography of Thurgood Marshall and I look forward to reading his other many nonfiction books for young readers.
May 30, 2020
A good book to read with your kids.
September 22, 2019
I was enthralled by this picture book biography of Thurgood Marshall but I thought the ending was a bit rushed. It felt like it needed a few more pages before getting to the ultimate climax of being nominated to the Supreme Court.
November 9, 2019
This was an enjoyable book about Thurgood Marshall. I'd obviously heard of him, but thanks to this picture book, now I know what he accomplished.
The book is written very well to reach children and have them understand the importance of this man in our history.
The book is written very well to reach children and have them understand the importance of this man in our history.
January 17, 2025
An outstanding introduction to one of the legislative leaders that implemented change for the civil rights of Black Americans.
Winter focuses on key moments in the life of Thurgood Marshall, the first Black justice to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Told chronologically, he often presents a point as "Fact:..." then proceeds to give a brief expansion about this topic. This reads very objectively - as if perhaps Marshall was setting up a legal brief and wanted to make his points. An author's note in back puts Marshall's life into perspective and includes a couple of B&W photos of him.
Brian Collier's watercolor an collage illustrations carry so much passion and spare Winter from having to spend time in descriptions of people, places, emotions, and actions. They are the scaffold that this book is built on. Collier captures passion and emotions not only on the faces of the people, but also in their gestures and actions, as well as their surroundings and perspectives. The image of Marshall looking at the reader while sitting in the back seat of the auto, readers will see the unsettled, scared young man looking behind him. Though many faces are unfocused in the book, it is always very obvious which is Marshall and exactly what he is feeling.
Pull this one out for Black History, social justice, Civil Rights, and American "change agents".
Highly Recommended for grades 2-5.
Winter focuses on key moments in the life of Thurgood Marshall, the first Black justice to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Told chronologically, he often presents a point as "Fact:..." then proceeds to give a brief expansion about this topic. This reads very objectively - as if perhaps Marshall was setting up a legal brief and wanted to make his points. An author's note in back puts Marshall's life into perspective and includes a couple of B&W photos of him.
Brian Collier's watercolor an collage illustrations carry so much passion and spare Winter from having to spend time in descriptions of people, places, emotions, and actions. They are the scaffold that this book is built on. Collier captures passion and emotions not only on the faces of the people, but also in their gestures and actions, as well as their surroundings and perspectives. The image of Marshall looking at the reader while sitting in the back seat of the auto, readers will see the unsettled, scared young man looking behind him. Though many faces are unfocused in the book, it is always very obvious which is Marshall and exactly what he is feeling.
Pull this one out for Black History, social justice, Civil Rights, and American "change agents".
Highly Recommended for grades 2-5.
February 25, 2020
I learned so much about Thurgood Marshall from this book. I appreciate how the author didn’t sugarcoat any of the struggles faced by Thurgood. And I also like show the story was presented in the fashion of a courtroom trial, by presenting facts, verdicts, and injustices.
I think the suggested age (5-9/k-3rd) is a bit on the low end of where this would really appeal and be impactful. There is so much prior knowledge that is needed to really understand this book. The law/legal aspect alone put it way out of reach for my 4.5 year old, who like many kids I’ve know his age doesn’t really get what a lawyer or trial are yet-and he’s still at the age of not quite grasping the shades of gray needed to fully get the history here. For example going to jail and civil disobedience are both presented as things Thurgood is a part of in the book. At 5 kids are just starting to be able to grasp that going to jail doesn’t automatically mean you are a “bad” person. We did get into that topic, but it just diminishes the impact a great book like this can have when it’s too far above conceptually. We will definitely reach back for this book in a couple of years because there is so much in it that is so important. I think it would be best suited for 7-12/2nd-6th grade and even above.
I think the suggested age (5-9/k-3rd) is a bit on the low end of where this would really appeal and be impactful. There is so much prior knowledge that is needed to really understand this book. The law/legal aspect alone put it way out of reach for my 4.5 year old, who like many kids I’ve know his age doesn’t really get what a lawyer or trial are yet-and he’s still at the age of not quite grasping the shades of gray needed to fully get the history here. For example going to jail and civil disobedience are both presented as things Thurgood is a part of in the book. At 5 kids are just starting to be able to grasp that going to jail doesn’t automatically mean you are a “bad” person. We did get into that topic, but it just diminishes the impact a great book like this can have when it’s too far above conceptually. We will definitely reach back for this book in a couple of years because there is so much in it that is so important. I think it would be best suited for 7-12/2nd-6th grade and even above.
January 27, 2021
A punchy introduction to an important figure. Hits on some engaging tidbits from Marshall's childhood right away -- changing his first name, getting in trouble for bumping into a white woman, going to school half days because the school was too crowded, getting involved in the debate team. An author's note in the back laments the limited format of the picture book for conveying Marshall's weighty legacy, but overall I think the main point was made. Life was not fair for Thurgood Marshall. He did not accept that and fought to change it.
I think the point that I wish there was room for was how difficult those changes were. Not just from a violent and physically threatening standpoint (that is addressed), but from a planning perspective. He couldn't just stride right in with lawsuits and change the laws. There was extensive strategy to how he brought cases to different courts. He fretted about bringing cases too soon, before he was sure he would win -- setting a bad precedent which would set his cause back. And in the meantime, people suffered under the injustice. Legal challenges are nice as they bring the full weight of the court system to bear on the outcome, but they are also part of a long, slow process.
I think the point that I wish there was room for was how difficult those changes were. Not just from a violent and physically threatening standpoint (that is addressed), but from a planning perspective. He couldn't just stride right in with lawsuits and change the laws. There was extensive strategy to how he brought cases to different courts. He fretted about bringing cases too soon, before he was sure he would win -- setting a bad precedent which would set his cause back. And in the meantime, people suffered under the injustice. Legal challenges are nice as they bring the full weight of the court system to bear on the outcome, but they are also part of a long, slow process.
Read
July 15, 2020I see the "sweet spot" for this amazing picture book to be grades 3-8th, but it really was an eye-opener for me, despite being a longtime admirer of Marshall and teaching about his significance in american history for years. When an adult has so many notable accomplishments, it is natural to move quickly beyond the youngest years within the limited space of a picture book. In this case, the author does an incredible job at exploring the YOUNG Thurgood, including his self-advocacy to change his legal name at six year old, his dinner-table debating practice with his father, and his trips to observe in judicial courtrooms at his father's side.
That background and much more provided such insight into the preparedness underpinning his brilliance and multiple successes. The illustrations lend even more detailed richness to the life brefore fame ad the conditions which shaped an American of astonishing stature, and one who I admire even more now than before reading the book.
That background and much more provided such insight into the preparedness underpinning his brilliance and multiple successes. The illustrations lend even more detailed richness to the life brefore fame ad the conditions which shaped an American of astonishing stature, and one who I admire even more now than before reading the book.
October 14, 2021
Collier's dramatic illustrations in collage & watercolor nearly adequately make up for the lack of photos.
Likewise, Winter's dramatic text - capitalizing "FACT" to introduce a scenario, then describing a situation that Thurgood Marshall argued by introducing first the "INJUSTICE" followed by the "JUSTICE" to show the outcome of the case - nearly make up for the lack of source notes & references.
While this picture book biography is only meant to serve as an introduction to a hero of American Civil Rights history, meant to be read aloud to young children, probably ages 5 to 7, the total lack of photos, a timeline, further reading, source notes, and Marshall's own quotes do not meet the basic requirements of even the simplest non-fiction.
The best use of it would be to read aloud to kindergarten through 3rd graders, as an introduction to books that are better constructed, but perhaps not as attractive to look at.
Likewise, Winter's dramatic text - capitalizing "FACT" to introduce a scenario, then describing a situation that Thurgood Marshall argued by introducing first the "INJUSTICE" followed by the "JUSTICE" to show the outcome of the case - nearly make up for the lack of source notes & references.
While this picture book biography is only meant to serve as an introduction to a hero of American Civil Rights history, meant to be read aloud to young children, probably ages 5 to 7, the total lack of photos, a timeline, further reading, source notes, and Marshall's own quotes do not meet the basic requirements of even the simplest non-fiction.
The best use of it would be to read aloud to kindergarten through 3rd graders, as an introduction to books that are better constructed, but perhaps not as attractive to look at.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2022
It mixes a few kinds of story since it's not a straight biographical narrative that explains Thurgood's life in chronological order but instead also uses the "fact..." statements but then also uses the "injustice X verdict X". It's not that it's confusing or hard to follow, instead it interrupts a flow. Either use one or the other or don't and just tell the story.
Thurgood himself is enough of a story, a natural born lawyer who convinced his parents to legally change his name to Thurgood from Thoroughgood. He was the first Black Supreme Court justice. He was a lawyer for the NAACP. He was almost killed by white cops. He was threatened often. He argued the Brown vs. Board of Education case. Similarly, his appointment to the Supreme Court is the last page of the biography, which felt like an abrupt stop from the ever-building crescendo of his fight and verve.
It's a nice homage to the man, but I wanted a little more consistency.
Thurgood himself is enough of a story, a natural born lawyer who convinced his parents to legally change his name to Thurgood from Thoroughgood. He was the first Black Supreme Court justice. He was a lawyer for the NAACP. He was almost killed by white cops. He was threatened often. He argued the Brown vs. Board of Education case. Similarly, his appointment to the Supreme Court is the last page of the biography, which felt like an abrupt stop from the ever-building crescendo of his fight and verve.
It's a nice homage to the man, but I wanted a little more consistency.
July 28, 2020
A biography about the life of Thurgood Marshall. Learn about the battles he faced, his determination, and his legacy. From becoming a lawyer, working for NAACP, to standing up and fighting for justice.
What a man. What a life. Thurgood Marshall was an incredible person. The world is a better place because of his determination and his refusal to back down. This is a wonderful book for educating children about his life. Written in a way that tells his story, this book is inspiring. Though it never should have been inequal in the first place, we can't change history. What we can do, is make a change for the future. And Thurgood Marshall proved that. While there is still work to to be done, he showed the world that it is possible.
https://mrsjamis.wixsite.com/misslibr...
What a man. What a life. Thurgood Marshall was an incredible person. The world is a better place because of his determination and his refusal to back down. This is a wonderful book for educating children about his life. Written in a way that tells his story, this book is inspiring. Though it never should have been inequal in the first place, we can't change history. What we can do, is make a change for the future. And Thurgood Marshall proved that. While there is still work to to be done, he showed the world that it is possible.
https://mrsjamis.wixsite.com/misslibr...
November 2, 2025
This children's book is informative, and it showcases important moments, not only in American history, but in the life of Thurgood Marshall too. We get moments in his history, get a glimpse at who he was and what drove him to fight for the injustices people of color were experiencing in America. He accomplished so much in his life time, and it's laid out in this story that is an easy read for most ages.
If you are looking for an interesting book for Black History Month or a book to touch on American history, I would definitely recommend this book. It is filled with information that you can expand on and research with your students of all ages. I also enjoy the illustrations; it added a depth and realness to this story that is sometimes missing from books like this.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this for your classroom.
If you are looking for an interesting book for Black History Month or a book to touch on American history, I would definitely recommend this book. It is filled with information that you can expand on and research with your students of all ages. I also enjoy the illustrations; it added a depth and realness to this story that is sometimes missing from books like this.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this for your classroom.
October 28, 2020
This brilliant picture book biography by award-winning author Jonah Winter and illustrator Bryan Collier is a must-have for any library collection. Recalling incidents in Thurgood Marshall’s life from the time he was 15 until the start of his legal career, the book ends with injustices that the crusading attorney righted before he was appointed the first black Supreme Court justice. An author’s note at the end of the book provides photos and more factual details about this American hero. Students will also enjoy a poster and related classroom activities available at Random House’s website at https://images.randomhouse.com/promo_... Great for biography research projects or studies about American history.
November 3, 2019
“... he would hone himself into a one-man weapon to destroy the laws that hurt black people.”
The story of Thurgood Marshall, who it would seem was born to be a lawyer. Overcoming obstacles in his own life, he became an advocate for other people who were living with racial discrimination. He faced death threats and a near miss with the Ku Klux Klan. His strong arguments in trials helped him to consistently win and rewrite the laws of the land to no longer allow segregation or racial discrimination. “With every battle, Thurgood took a SLEDGEHAMMER to racial inequality in America.”
Includes an author’s note with additional information.
The story of Thurgood Marshall, who it would seem was born to be a lawyer. Overcoming obstacles in his own life, he became an advocate for other people who were living with racial discrimination. He faced death threats and a near miss with the Ku Klux Klan. His strong arguments in trials helped him to consistently win and rewrite the laws of the land to no longer allow segregation or racial discrimination. “With every battle, Thurgood took a SLEDGEHAMMER to racial inequality in America.”
Includes an author’s note with additional information.
February 13, 2020
Winter and Collier join together for a biography of one of the greatest lawyers in recent history, Thurgood Marshall. From an early age, Marshall honed an ability to argue through discussions with his father who asked for evidence to back up his claims and his high school debate career. As a lawyer, Marshall is responsible for many of the civil rights victories of the 1950s and 1960s. Winter doesn't hesitate to show that Marshall put his life on the line for these victories. Collier's watercolor and collage illustrations illuminate the different parts of Marshall's life and often show movement. A back page gives a bit longer overview of Marshall's life.
March 16, 2021
Thurgood was a born lawyer. He faced racism and prejudice his entire childhood. His father had a big influence on his life. His father taught him about the law system and how to argue and make your points. In school, Thurgood was the best debater there was. He went on to become one of the most influential and successful civil rights lawyers, just as he was destined to do. He fought the same injustices he experienced his whole life. I did not know who Thurgood was before reading this book. I am very happy that I got the opportunity to read this book and learn about this inspiring trailblazer. The artwork is just as inspirational as the written words.
October 28, 2019
Thanks heavens we finally have a well designed, beautifully illustrated biography about this hugely important figure. I only wish the author had mentioned, even in the afterword, that Marshall early in his career defended the Port Chicago 50 against mutiny charges and it was much of that -unsuccessful- defense that informed his Brown v. Board case. Hate that we don’t inform kids about the failures that lead to later success
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