This captivating book will engage children in many ways. First, the moral themes of justice, equality, and love that the book focuses on are connected to the process of moral formation that occurs in children ages 6 to 8. Children at this age are developing instincts about good and evil, and Martin’s big words will engage children in this part of their experience.
Second, the book’s simple and engaging style draws the young reader into the story. Although the themes that evoke the life and work of Dr. King (eg, rights, freedom, justice, equality, etc.) may seem somewhat abstract to children, Martin’s Big Words portrays them in an accessible way. For example, the book begins with the following line: “Everywhere in Martin’s hometown he saw signs, WHITE ONLY.” The line is accompanied by an image of young Martin standing with his mother by two water fountains, one marked “For Whites Only.” This accessible concrete representation highlights the problem facing Dr. King and sparks curiosity about how the problem was solved.
Third, the poignant beauty of Dr. King’s words resonate throughout the book. For example, on page 21, after a simple allusion to Dr. King’s famous speech in Washington, DC, the book quotes: “I have a dream that one day in Alabama, black boys and black girls will join white children.” and white girls as sisters and brothers.” Such brief yet poignant quotes communicate to young children the beauty and power of Dr. King’s words in an accessible way.
Fourth, the illustrations in the book are captivating. Collier’s use of mixed-media collage entices the reader to examine his artwork closely, while his use of watercolor conveys subtle emotions on the faces of the book’s characters. This combination of watercolor and collage brings a visual vibrancy to the book that reflects the evolving emotional mood of the narrative. For example, the image on the page reporting the murder of Dr. King shows the closest, most detailed, and most intense portrait of King in the book, framed by stained glass. Fine gray lines cross his face, suggesting that he is now separated from us, as if he had made him a fence. The illustration communicates the tragedy of his death, but also the religious hope of life beyond death that filled his heart. His intense gaze seems to call us to continue with his work. The beauty and power of the images in this book fit perfectly with the beauty and power of Dr. King’s words.
In addition to these factors that give the book subjective appeal, the book has significant developmental value. First, the book introduces children to the life of a great American and the history of the civil rights movement in the mid-20th century. Because of its simplicity, the book provides an excellent opportunity for adults to discuss the events and issues of the day with young children.
Secondly, the book will encourage the moral development of children in the age category of 6-8 years. It brings the themes of racism, segregation, justice, and love into sharp, concrete focus for a child, stimulating moral emotions, thoughts, and perhaps even actions, thus aiding in the formation of character. Just as the accessible style of the book provides an opportunity for adults to discuss the history of the period with children, it also provides an opportunity for moral teaching and learning.
Third, Martin’s great words provide an example of faith in action. As the book makes clear in its refreshingly simple way, Dr. King’s motivation and perseverance stemmed from his faith in God. The words of Dr. King, quoted on p. 20, sums up this thought: “Remember, if I am stopped, this movement will not stop, because God is with this movement.” The book offers an excellent opportunity for adults to talk with children about the role of religion in our public and private lives.
Finally, the book is very creative. Both the mixed-media illustrations and the combination of a simple historical narrative punctuated by powerful quotes from Dr. King’s “great words” contribute to the formation of a child’s taste for excellent and creative literature.
