On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, igniting a movement for civil rights and justice. Today, nearly 60 years later, his legacy continues to inspire people of all ages. One way to keep his legacy alive and inspire a new generation is to introduce children to books about his life and work. From picture books and biographies to stories about civil rights and social justice, here are 18 children's books 📚 that can help educate and inspire young readers. Each book pays tribute to the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and encourages children to think critically about the issues of social justice, civil rights, and equality.
The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." by Doreen Rappaport uses quotes from Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches to tell the story of his life and his role in the Civil Rights Movement.
"I Have a Dream" by Martin Luther King Jr. and Kadir Nelson. This book is an illustrated version of the famous speech by Dr. King where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
"The Story of Martin Luther King Jr." by Johnny Ray Moore tells the life story of Dr. King, from his childhood in the segregated South to his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement and his historic "I Have a Dream" speech.
"A Picture Book of Martin Luther King Jr." by David A. Adler is a short, illustrated biography of Martin Luther King Jr. that is appropriate for young children.
I am Brave: A Little Book about Martin Luther King, Jr. (Ordinary People Change the World) by Brad Meltzer. This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great—the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves.
"We Are the Change: Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders" by Harry Belafonte. This book is a collection of speeches and quotes from Civil Rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr Coloring Book: An Illustrated Coloring Activity Book and History of the Civil Rights Movement (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr ) by Yassine Art Book. +30 coloring pages of Martin Luther King are perfect for encouraging a growth mindset and providing kids with time to express themselves creatively. Each poster contains Martin Luther King, Jr. quotes that reflect peace and love.
"Martin's Dream Day" by Kitty Kelley, is a children's book that describes the events of the famous "I Have a Dream" speech on August 28, 1963.
"The Speech: The Story Behind Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Dream" by Gary Younge, This book tells the story of the "I Have a Dream" speech and its lasting impact on the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.
"My Brother Martin: A Sister Remembers Growing Up with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." by Christine King Farris, This book is a personal memoir by the sister of Martin Luther King Jr., describing her childhood growing up with him and the lessons he taught her about justice and equality.
A Lesson for Martin Luther King Jr.: (Ready-to-Read Childhood of Famous Americans) Denise Lewis Patrick. Young Martin Luther King Jr. is having some problems with his best friend, Bobby. First, they are going to different schools this year. Next, Bobby's dad is not letting his son play with Martin. When Martin learns why he is confused and hurt--but he learns a lesson that he will never forget.
"The March on Washington" by James Haskins, This book tells the story of the famous March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech.
My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Martin Luther King, Jr. III, Martin Luther King III was one of those four little children mentioned in Martin Luther King’s groundbreaking “I Have a Dream” speech. In this memoir, Martin Luther King Jr.’s son gives an intimate look at the man and the father behind the civil rights leader. Mr. King’s remembrances show both his warm, loving family and a momentous time in American history.
"Happy Birthday, Martin Luther King" by Jean Marzollo, This book is a simple, illustrated story that celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday and the importance of his work.
"My Uncle Martin's Big Heart" by Angela Farris Watkins, This book is a personal story about the life and impact of Martin Luther King Jr., told from the perspective of his niece.
"I Am Martin Luther King, Jr." by Brad Meltzer, This book is a picture book biography of Martin Luther King Jr., focusing on his key role in the Civil Rights Movement.
"Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Warrior" by Ed Clayton, This book is a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. that focuses on his philosophy of nonviolence and his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.: A Biography Book for New Readers, by Christine Platt. This book is a biography of Martin Luther King Jr. that tells the story of his life and his role in the Civil Rights Movement.
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