Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a social activist famous for leading the civil rights movement in the United States. Since his contribution to modern history, several writers have written about the man with a dream. As we peruse the options based on the civil rights leader, one autobiography stands out from the rest.
Through a picture-book format, Martin Luther King III writes about his father and the memories of their time together in “My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr” If you’re thinking of recommending children’s books to read on Martin Luther King Jr day, this book is a great start.
About the Author:
Like his father, Martin Luther King III is an American activist who advocates for human rights. He is the oldest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.
Martin has three siblings. Yolanda, Dexter, and Bernice—all of them are also civil rights activists. King is currently working as an ambassador of international human rights. You can visit his website at https://www.mlking3.com/.
About the Book:
“My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” is a picture book memoir by Martin Luther King III. It was illustrated by AG Ford, who has also worked on several children’s books.
The book provides insight into one of history’s most influential figures. While we all know Dr. King as a leader, not many of them know him as a father. The same man—who dreamed of his four children living in a world where their skin color would not be the basis for judgment—understood the sacrifices he must make to make such a dream a reality.
Of course, to a young child like Marty, the road to realizing a dream takes work. In this book, several personal anecdotes appear, demonstrating King’s activism and how it took a toll on his family.
One event that particularly stood out was the kids’ wish to go to Funtown. While Dr. King promised they’ll eventually go to the amusement park, it was revealed later that the rides and rollercoasters were only for white people. While this event certainly stood out, other stories of Marty’s childhood experience growing up during the civil rights movement are also significant.
Takeaway: “My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” is a great starter read for families who wish to introduce Dr. King to their children. While Marty’s anecdotes may be poignant, they are also helpful in teaching children the value of how great changes require great sacrifice. Vibrant and well-illustrated, King’s picture book memoir is one of the best books about Martin Luther King Jr today.