Because of You, John Lewis
Beautiful biography shows friendship forged in activism.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Because of You, John Lewis is a picture book biography by New York Times bestselling author Andrea Davis Pinkney (Martin Rising: Requiem for a King) and celebrated illustrator Keith Henry Brown. The book shares the story of a genuine friendship between Congressman John Lewis and a young activist he met when that boy, Tybre Faw, was 10. The back of the book includes actual black-and-white photos from the civil rights movement, including a fire bomb, that may be upsetting for some young readers. Themes of the book include activism, civil rights history, friendship, and courage.
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What's the Story?
BECAUSE OF YOU, JOHN LEWIS shares the story of 10-year-old Tybre Faw, who has dreams of becoming a legendary activist like his idol, Representative John Lewis. After learning more about the civil rights movement and its connection to Black Lives Matter, Tybre wants to be "unstoppable and brave" and "all about equality." He believes that the best way to do this is to travel hundreds of miles in the hopes of meeting Lewis at the Edmund Pettus Bridge. On the anniversary of Blood Sunday, the two meet and form an instant, remarkable bond. The walk they take together across the bridge has everyone in awe. But after John Lewis sadly passes, will Tybre be able to keep his legacy alive?
Is It Any Good?
This picture book is an amazing representation of the true power of friendship and courage, across generations. Because of You, John Lewis shows readers it's possible to build a bridge to their dreams and make true change in the world. Author Andrea Davis Pinkney's words are melodic and powerful paired with Keith Henry Brown's impressive illustrations. The book's pages are filled with watercolors, line drawings, and textile images. Readers will be touched by the awe-inspiring story of John Lewis and Tybre's linked paths and shared passions. The story is truly a wonderful read for the whole family.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about all the interesting facts shared about U.S. Congressman John Lewis in Because of You, John Lewis. What's something new you learned about him? What character strengths do you think he had?
How do you think Tybre felt when he met Representative John Lewis? Have you ever met someone you admired? How did it make you feel?
Representative John Lewis experienced racism during the civil rights movement in the 1960s. How is what he experienced different or the same as what Tybre may be encountering in modern times, during the Black Lives Matter movement?
Book Details
- Author: Andrea Davis Pinkney
- Illustrator: Keith Henry Brown
- Genre: Biography
- Topics: Activism, Friendship, Great Boy Role Models, History
- Character Strengths: Courage, Integrity
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Scholastic Press
- Publication date: June 7, 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: June 8, 2022
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Martin Rising: Requiem for a King
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Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
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This Is Your Time
Powerful true tale of girl who desegregated school in 1960.
For kids who love civil rights stories and tales of activism
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