I Have a Dream

School Library Journal

Gr 7-10-- An outstanding book that examines King's life and achievements. Haskins focuses on the impact of the civil rights movement and the beliefs that King so eloquently espoused. Information about his family, schooling, and civil-rights activities are conveyed in a lively and engaging manner. Inserted at various points throughout the text are excerpts from speeches, letters, or commentaries. They are positioned in gray boxes, and enable readers to see King's perspective on a particular course of action. The many black-and-white photographs are attractively arranged and often compelling. In addition to photographs directly related to King, there are others that convey the mood of the country struggling to come to terms with the yoke of segregation. A touching introduction Rosa Parks and concluding source notes supplement the book. All in all, this biography provides a balanced portrait of Dr. King, and it clearly portrays his impact on history. --Jeanette Lambert, Nashville Metropolitan Schools, TN