Civil Rights 3

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Written by Doreen Rappaport

Illustrated by Bryan Collier



 Martin's Big Words includes scenes from King's life, beginning with his childhood experience of seeing "White Only" signs sprinkled throughout his hometown. He questions his mother about their meaning, and she assures him, "You are as good as anyone." Listening to his father preach, the boy asserts that "When I grow up, I'm going to get big words, too." Rappaport also touches upon King's role in the Montgomery bus strike that followed Rosa Park's 1955 arrest for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger and his subsequent efforts as a civil rights crusader.


Martin's Big Words Read Aloud

Additional Resources for Classroom Use:

 The Seattle Times: Martin Luther King Jr. Website
Includes a biography, his words, and a photo gallery

I Have A Dream Speech
Video and text

How Big Are Martin's Big Words? Thinking Big about the Future
ReadWriteThink Lesson Plan (Grades 3-5)

Classroom Resources for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Lesson plans, activity ideas, & other resources from National Education Association

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Discussion Guide
Scholastic Activity/Discussion Guide