Biography

Who was Martin Luther King Jr.? is a biography chapter book written by Bonnie Bader and illustrated by Elizabeth Wolf.

• Suggested Grade Level: 2-5. The language is easy enough for a young reader and there are lots of excerpts that explain important people and events that may be unknown to them. It is however, iextremely important and easy to follow for an older reader.

• Summary: The book begins by discussing Martin Luther King Jr. and his dedication from a young age to peaceful protest. King dedicates his life to helping people and peacefully protesting unjust laws. He is thrown in jail several times and discriminated against simply for the color of his skin. This was not right and he would not stand for it. The book follows MLK jr. as he juggles his family life and serve his beliefs up until he is murdered. This book is written in a manner that is inviting to young readers and older readers.

• Classroom Strategies and Skills:
• Grand Conversation about the influence of Martin Luther King Jr., others who have had similar influences, how can we continue to spread his message?, etc.
• Create a character map on a poster to share in small groups. Include pictures, quotes, and information that contributes to MLK Jr.'s "character."

• ESOL Strategies & Applications:
• Create a timeline that reflects all of the important laws and movements that Martin Luther King Jr. was involved in.
• There are several excerpts with pictures and explanations about concepts that children may be unfamiliar with in the book. This could be especially helpful for ESOL students to refer to.

• Read Aloud: Chapter 1. It introduces who Martin Luther King Jr. and who he stands for. It will give the students an opportunity to ask questions and talk about who he is.

• Personal Opinion:
• I thought this book was awesome. It was very informative but in a way that would be interesting and understandable for kkis. I think this book could be used by grade 2 all the way up through middle school. It would be most age appropriate for 2nd-5th though. The pictures and supplementary information will help the story flow for kids who have yet to be taught about things like Jim Crow Laws, etc. or for those who need a refresher.