The Story of Ruby Bridges

Written by Robert Coles

Illustrated by George Ford

Scholastic Books, 1995

Genre: Children's Nonfiction

Reading Level: Ages 7-10

32 pages

This wonderfully written children's book is the true story of the courageous Ruby Bridges. The story starts with a brief background of Ruby and her family and their move to New Orleans in 1957. It describes the family's Christian spirit and dedication to each other. Then Coles goes into an explanation of the times and the concept of segregation in schools, and how in 1960 a judge ordered four black girls to go to two white elementary schools. Ruby was one of the girls chosen to go to a white school, her parents were very proud of their daughter. Unfortunately Ruby was the only one to go to one of the schools, while the other three girls went to the other chosen elementary school. The story then jumps ahead to Ruby's first day at the school. It is surrounded by a mob of angry white people who threatened Ruby and called her names. While the city and state police did not help protect Ruby the president of the US ordered marshals to walk with Ruby into the building. This continued for months, but still Ruby went to school. To a school where she was the only student with only one teacher, Mrs. Henry as the white families refused to work there or send their kids. The author portrays one tender moment where Mrs. Henry one day looked out the window and saw Ruby, surrounded by the hateful mob, stop and say something. Later when asked what she had said Ruby answered that she had been praying for them.

I would recommend this book to any child interested in history, looking for a hero, or that need to know that even children have a huge impact.

I believe that this could be a controversial book, many people feel that we should censor children's reading so that it doesn't include anything uncomfortable, or that portrays people in a bad way. They want their kids to think the world is a wonderful accepting place.

I really loved how the author portrayed Ruby's story. He helped the reader connect with Ruby in a new way, and made it interesting and entertaining for children. The pictures are beautiful, and the story correct and well written.

My rating: 5 out of 5