Absorbing For The Both of Us
I believe I’ve already mentioned that nonfiction read-alouds are a harder sell with my 13-year-old, but Russell Freedman’s Freedom Walkers: The Story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott captivated her about as much as it did me. It probably helped that she’s familiar with Claudette Colvin and Rosa Parks, but the story of the boycott itself still grabbed her, and really, I shouldn’t be surprised. I am humbled and inspired at the thought of those who walked daily in the heat of an Alabama summer to win rights that should never have been in question, not to mention awestruck at the level of organization achieved by the intricate network of carpools and rides the leaders developed (and the sheer publicity required!). Freedman provides plenty of photos for context, and as always, his text is both informative and accessible. I enjoyed reading this for myself; I loved reading it with my daughter.
In other news, my son completed his science fair board more or less by himself and without prodding, and that was fantastic; less fantastic is knowing that my oldest turns 16 tomorrow. I am NOT ready for this!