Common Sense Media Review
By Darienne Stewart
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lovely, poignant look at key moment in Indian history.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In 1930, Mohandas Gandhi and scores of supporters take the first step on a 24-day walk to the sea to make salt in defiance of the British salt laws. They set out to break the law, but their goal is to win freedom peacefully. Rumors persist that trouble is brewing, but Gandhi keeps going. Along the way, he teaches people how to spin their own yarn, another way to defy taxes on cloth. He even defies traditional belief and bathes with water reserved for the Untouchables. When he reaches the shore, he scoops up sandy mud to show the salt. He and thousands of Indians are arrested in the ensuing protests, part of India's long march to freedom.
Is It Any Good?
Author Alice McGinty walked Gandhi's path to the sea and worked closely with his grandson on this story; her feeling for this subject infuses the book. Her gentle verse, moving in rhythmic waves, and softly shaded illustrations by Thomas Gonzalez combine for great sensory appeal. Together they distill a complicated subject down to an emotionally resonant story that will connect with kids.
The book is marketed to ages 8 and older, but it's fine for younger children. If they aren't already acquainted with Gandhi and Indian history, however, be prepared to answer a lot of questions during the first few readings. The publisher's website offers a helpful educational guide, including hands-on activities.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about rules and fairness. Is it OK to break a rule you think is unfair? Does it matter why or how you defy it? Who decides when a rule is unjust?
Gandhi and his supporters protest what they feel are unjust laws imposed by the British government with nonviolent action. How is this similar to -- and different from -- the American Revolution? Do you think nonviolent protest would have led to American freedom?
Do you like picture books about real people? What other picture book biographies have you read?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Thomas Gonzalez
- Genre : History
- Topics : History
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Amazon Children's Publishing
- Publication date : April 2, 2013
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Hardback
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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