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Title: The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis ISBN: 0-440-41412-1 Publisher: Yearling Books Pub. Date: 01 October, 1997 Format: Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $6.50 |
Average Customer Rating: 4.33 (398 reviews)
Rating: 4
Summary: A Historical Glimpse into African-American Society
Comment: This story shows events in the 1960s through the eyes of an adolescent boy, ten-year-old Kenny, whose family includes a thirteen-year-old brother, Byron, a younger sister, Joetta, and his mom and dad. The author's ability to convey aspects of African-American family life in an urban, Flint, Michigan, setting is fantastic! Adolescent and teen readers learn what was cool among then urban "black" teenagers through self-absorbed Byron's adventures. He does everything from 'conking' his hair against his parent's wishes to skipping school and setting fires. Teens can understand this black family's values given the control the strict parents try to have over Byron's behavior. They decide to go south so that the grandma can 'take him in hand'. Many of the episodes are hilarious, others sad, and all are engaging. Teen readers will become acquainted with groups and events from the 1960s American civil rights era through the events of Kenny's life. Just like today's teens and pre-teens, Kenny and Byron are portrayed as well-rounded characters with emotional challenges that they must overcome as they mature. When the KKK bombs a Birmingham church, Kenny's fears of unseen threats become real. Young adult readers will enjoy this book because the protagonist is in their age group. Those from other cultural backgounds will enjoy the exposure to the working class, African-American experience. The author skillfully interweaves historical aspects of American culture into the plot. Older adults will appreciate the book as they reflect on past experiences. Educators will enjoy Curtis' adept use of the language in a story that offers many avenues to teach history, English, social studies and other subjects. It's a must read for all ages!
Rating: 5
Summary: The Watsons Go To Birmingham-1963
Comment: This is a story about an African family who lives in Flint, Michigan who decides to visit their grandmother at Birmingham, Alabama. Because Alabama was in the south, they had to face a racism tragedy. They have to go through sometimes-funny times such as Byron getting his lip stuck to the mirror or other horrible times such as the bombings. When they get to their grandmother's house, they experience one of the most hated times for African Americans.
I liked this book because it talked about racism and how it should never happen again. I also liked this book because it was a mix of history and humor. This book was great with the idea of viewing it from the kids mind. I liked this book a lot and would recommend this to anyone who enjoys learning history and likes to laugh.
My favorite part in the story was when Byron wanted to have his hair Mexican-style and gets it even when his parents don't like it. It was funny when his dad comes home and gets mad. He shaves Byron's hair off so that he looks bald.
Rating: 5
Summary: Review
Comment: I read the book The Watsons go to Birmingham - 1963 and found it very interesting and funny. The story is about a boy named Kenneth Watson who has an older brother, Byron, a younger sister, Joetta, a mom, and a dad. They all live in Flint, Michigan. Byron is constantly getting into trouble, so mom and dad decide that he should spend the summer with his grandmother in Birmingham. The whole family has to go on the trip because they can't leave anybody at home. While they are in Birmingham, the church is attacked by white people who throw a stick of dynamite into it. Kenny goes into the church after this and thinks he sees Joetta's shoe, and he thinks that the Whool Pooh, an imaginary evil twin of Winnie the pooh, is trying to kidnap her, so he leaves. When he finds out that Joetta wasn't in the church, he feels guilty because even if she had been in the church he wouldn't have helped her escape the Whool Pooh. After this, they decide to leave Birmingham. When they get back home, Kenneth hides behind the couch in their house and hopes to not feel guilty about not rescuing Joetta. Byron finally (...). I like this book and would recommend it to readers of any age. It is funny and entertaining. For example, one funny part is when Byron tries to kiss his reflection is the car mirror and gets his lips stuck to it. In conclusion, I think the book is amusing though it is sad and is a good book for anyone to read.
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Title: Bud, Not Buddy (Newbery Medal Winner, 2000) by Christopher Paul Curtis ISBN: 0440413281 Publisher: Yearling Books Pub. Date: 08 January, 2002 List Price(USD): $5.99 |
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Title: The Giver by LOIS LOWRY ISBN: 0440237688 Publisher: Laure Leaf Pub. Date: 10 September, 2002 List Price(USD): $6.50 |
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Title: Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli ISBN: 0316809063 Publisher: Little Brown & Company Pub. Date: 01 November, 1999 List Price(USD): $6.99 |
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Title: Holes by LOUIS SACHAR ISBN: 0440414806 Publisher: Yearling Books Pub. Date: 09 May, 2000 List Price(USD): $6.50 |
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Title: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor ISBN: 014034893X Publisher: Puffin Pub. Date: October, 1991 List Price(USD): $6.99 |
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