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Christopher Paul Curtis has proven himself as a master of adolescent historical fiction. His writing is funny, his language understandable while meaningful, and his themes universal. The Watson family is on its way to Birmingham, and Mr. Watson has purchased an Ultra-Glide (dashboard record player) for the ride. The ride is full of funny moments, including believable family dynamics. Unfortunately for the Watsons, driving from Flint, Michigan down to Birmingham, Alabama in 1963 is a dangerous ride. The family is African-American and has to be wary of whites living in the segregated South. Tragedy strikes because of hatred and racism, and the Watson boys try to understand as best they can. The book brings a very real incident to life, and it makes it very real for many kids. I've never met a kid who couldn't identify with the characters in the book, and they all love it. It's great for fourth through seventh grade, and I got a great kick out of it as an adult. A new classic, and a must for any adolescent's library.Read full review
The book pictured is not the book I received. The book I received has same title but isn't the book pictured.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
THIS IS A GREAT LITTLE BOOK WRITTEN IN 1963. MR. CURTIS CREATES THE OVERALL ATMOSPHERE IN A WAY THAT ALLOWS THE READER TO 'FEEL THE ERA WHICH ENHANCES UNDERSTANDING OF THE TIMES, THE CIVIL RIGHTS STRUGGLES AND THE TRAGEDIES. IT'S WRITTEN FOR YOUNG READERS BUT ADULTS WHO WANT SOME INSIGHTS INTO HOW HARD FOLKS HAD TO WORK TO COME AS FAR AS THEY DID, MIGHT FIND THIS BOOK A GOOD INTRODUCTION. IT WOULD BE A GOOD BOOK FOR PARENTS TO READ WHEN THEIR KIDS ARE ALSO READING IT, THEN DISCUSSING IT WITH THEM AS AN INTRODUCTION TO CIVIL RIGHTS AND EMBRACING DIVERSITY. MR CURTIS USES HUMOR AND A SENSE OF FAMILY TO BALANCE THE DARKNESS FOR THE READER.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
very funny book! gives the kids alot of info on historical events with a funny twist. I have not read this book but my son has been reading it at school and actually asked for a copy for home and he doesnt even like to read!
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