The Real Story of Rosa Parks

So Other People Would Be Also Free

Rosa Parks helped to spark change at the beginning of the civil rights movement in America. Her life experience up to the point where she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus led her to make that historical choice. So Other People Would Be Also Free: The Real Story of Rosa Parks for Kids tells her story in a short chapter book for elementary and middle readers.

Excellent for Young Readers

This book is beautifully done! First of all, the short chapters about Rosa Parks are broken down into chunks with subheadings, so younger or struggling readers will find them manageable. An index is included, so kids can learn how to find information efficiently. This is an especially useful skill to learn. The book features lovely illustrations, inspring quotes, and photographs of the actual bus Rosa Parks rode along with other historical events, people, and places. So Other People Would Be Also Free is perfect for kids who are learning history, as well as kids who want to explore the themes this book addresses, such as racism and segregation.

Opening the Door to Discussions

I especially like that this book explores Rosa Parks’ legacy beyond the events of December 1, 1955. Readers learn how her actions and values influenced people during the civil rights movement and continue to influence people today. As kids explore the issues presented by Rosa Parks’ story, there are many opportunities to discuss things we are confronted with in today’s world.

For younger children, be sure to look at our list of picture books about the civil rights movement. To explore the issues of equality further, here is a great book about Harriet Tubman’s story for younger readers.