Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'round: My Story of the Making of Martin Luther King Day
What’s inside...
'Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'round: My Story of the Making of Martin Luther King Day' is a powerful memoir by Kathlyn J. Kirkwood that recounts her journey as a grassroots activist who played a pivotal role in the movement to establish Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday. With raw emotion and unflinching honesty, Kirkwood shares her experiences of fighting for racial equality and justice, from her childhood in the segregated South to her work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and beyond. The book offers a unique perspective on the civil rights movement, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of women and grassroots organizers. Kirkwood's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and community, showing how ordinary people can effect change through collective action and determination. Throughout the book, Kirkwood reflects on the challenges she faced, including sexism, racism, and personal struggles, and how she overcame them through her faith and commitment to the cause. Her story is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the importance of continuing to fight for a more equitable society. Overall, 'Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'round' is a moving and inspiring account of one woman's journey in the civil rights movement, and a testament to the power of grassroots activism to bring about change. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the civil rights movement, social justice, and the ongoing fight for racial equality in America.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think people worked so hard to create a day to remember Martin Luther King Jr.?
How do you feel about the way Kathlyn and others stood up for what they believed in?
What would you do if you saw someone being treated unfairly?
How can we honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy in our daily lives?
What qualities do you admire most in the leaders you learned about in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the struggles and achievements in the book to their own experiences of fairness and justice.
Discuss the importance of persistence and how standing up for what is right, like the characters in the book, can lead to significant changes.
Ask your child to think of ways they can embody the qualities of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. in their everyday actions at school or at home.
Utilize pauses after reading passages that depict significant events or turning points to ask your child how they might feel in that situation, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Celebrate the achievements depicted in the book by planning a family activity on Martin Luther King Day that reflects the values discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of resilience
Explanation: The protagonist showcases persistent effort in advocating for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, despite facing numerous challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their goals, whether it's learning a new skill or standing up for what they believe in, even when faced with obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of civic engagement
Explanation: The book highlights the process and importance of civic activities like petitions and rallies to effect change.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in community activities and understand their role in societal changes, teaching them the value of their voice in a democracy.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical significance
Explanation: Through the journey to establish a national holiday, the book educates about the historical context of civil rights movements.
Real-World Application: It helps children grasp the importance of history in shaping our present and future, promoting a deeper respect for past struggles and achievements.
Example Lesson: Empathy and solidarity
Explanation: The story demonstrates empathy by showing support for Martin Luther King Jr.'s ideals and the broader goal of equality.
Real-World Application: Children learn to empathize with others' experiences and struggles, fostering a sense of solidarity and support for fairness and justice.
Example Lesson: Leadership and influence
Explanation: Key figures in the book exhibit leadership by organizing and advocating for a significant cause.
Real-World Application: This models leadership qualities for children, showing them how they can influence positive changes within their schools, families, or communities.