Brown V. Board of Education

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10A timely series entry because of the 40th anniversary of the integration of Little Rock's Central High School. In a clear, well-detailed presentation, Tackach follows the course of the African-American civil rights struggle, from the Civil War to the present, but the focal point of this book is school segregationits effects, social impact, inequities, and its eventual demise. Concise summaries of the arguments, debate, and reaction to the court's unanimous decision are included and the legacy of the decision of this case is examined. This overview complements Harvey Fireside and Sarah Fuller's Brown v. Board of Education (Enslow, 1994), which gives more attention to the character and decision-making dynamics of the Supreme Court, while this volume emphasizes the before-and-after significance of the decision. Although both titles feature memorable quotes and similar anecdotes, Tackach's book offers frequent sidebars containing biographical profiles of pivotal figures, case-study information, and expanded explanations of key places and events. Libraries needing additional resources on Supreme Court decisions and civil rights issues will appreciate this open-ended discussion of the lasting effects of this landmark decision.Gerry Larson, Durham Magnet Center, Durham, NC