Choose 2 books about the same character, a picture book biography and a biography for older readers--one or both can be from the reading list and books you read for the module. How does the content differ between the two books. What is left out of the picture book biography compared to the biography for older readers? Are both age appropriate? What would you like to see changed in the content of these biographies--if anything--and why? What is your overall evaluation of the two books?
My books of choice were:
Martin's Big Words by Doreen Rappaport (A picture book biography for younger readers.)
M.L.K. Journey of a King by Tonya Bolden (A juvenile biography for middle school readers.)
Martin's Big Words was a beautiful award-winning picture book that tells the story of Martin Luther King Jr. in a way that is simple enough for younger readers to comprehend. Young readers will enjoy seeing Martin as a young boy, just like them, with big dreams. The pictures and words throughout the story are simple, yet inspiring. The struggle of MLK is evident, but not overwhelming. The violence surrounding the work of Dr. King is mentioned, but not presented as the focus. This story focuses on how King was able to use words to make a difference, with peace being the main priority. While his assassination is mentioned, it is done so carefully, and almost in passing, allowing the focus to remain on the words of MLK. Some other civil rights related events were also touched on, but again, not pushed as the focus of the biography.
Journey of a King, however, provides a great deal more detail into the more difficult or trying aspects of the life of Martin Luther King Junior. Actual photographs (rather than illustrations) provide a more intimate look at the violence, protests, and anguish surrounding the civil right movement. When children are able to connect real people to the events, the story is significantly intensified. Additionally, this book details the more violent events such as bombings, arrests, and attacks. While not mentioning all the gory details, the book pulls no punches when discussing the ramifications of the actions. (For example, the book is frank when discussing the bombing of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, explaining the number of people that died and showing an injured girl, but is brief in the overall discussion.) On multiple occasions the book discusses the racist language, violent actions, and hateful feelings of those fighting against the work of King. The book even tackles controversial issues such as King's intense faith and the desire of some African Americans for reverse discrimination. However, like Martin's Big Words, Journey of a King gives little detail or information about the assassination of Dr. King. Even less is said regarding the personal life of King, with only a single mention of down times in his marriage.
In my opinion, both books were appropriate for the age intended. Both books focused on the legacy and effort of Dr. King, rather than on controversy or his personal life. As children, it is important for readers to learn of the work Dr. King did, and all that we have today due to his efforts. Each book was able to do this on a level that allows the reader to synthesize the information without overwhelming them with gritty details above their level of comprehension. With that being said, there is nothing I would change about either book. I think that the number of awards given to each book are telling that they are quality biographies for children. Are all this way? Of course not, but the two I chose happen to be outstanding examples. Overall, I enjoyed both books a great deal. With Journey of a King, I even found myself learning things I never knew! I see myself using Martin's Big Words in my classroom this year, and in the library for many years to come.
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