Book Description Review “Inspiring” —The Wall Street Journal “A lovely, inspirational picture-book biography about beating the odds and achieving your dreams.” —Booklist, starred review”Walker’s determination and her long, long life—she died at 121—offer genuine inspiration.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review “Enjoy this book with every child you know; let Mary Walker become a household name.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review“An absorbing narrative and excellent illustrations combine to create a moving story of encouragement for youngsters.” —School Library Journal, starred review“A riveting portrait of a strong-willed American icon.” —BookPage, starrred review Read more About the Author Rita Lorraine Hubbard is the author of a number of nonfiction books for adults and runs the children’s book review site Picture Book Depot. She is the author of Hammering for Freedom: The Story of William Lewis, which was awarded the New Voices Award by Lee & Low Books and has received three starred reviews. Ms. Hubbard lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee. You can find her online at ritahubbard.com.Oge Mora is the author/illustrator of Thank You, Omu! which won a Caldecott Honor as well as the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award. It was also selected as a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice Staff Pick and was chosen by both Publishers Weekly and School Library Journal as a Best Book of 2018. Visit her at ogemora.com. Read more Customers Review: I love this story. It reminds me of my grandfather who I taught to read at 70 years old. I became an educator so I could help others. This story inspired me to continue spreading the message that there is NOT an achievement gap for black and brown children … there is an OPPORTUNITY GAP. I pray that stories like this continue to motivate children to learn and that people in education continue to consider the lasting impact slavery and racism has had on the education of black and brown children. Well done. Bravo.
A stunning and triumphant story! This book is beautiful! My children (ages 4, 8, and 11) were captivated by this story from beginning to end. Mary Walker’s life opened up thoughtful discussions about history, slavery, education, overcoming challenges, and celebration. 5 stars!
Breathtaking book on all levels, and so inspiring! Indeed, nobody is ever too old to learn. What a fabulous message for children. I had never heard of Mary Walker, but I am glad I know her story now, and that children will too.
This is an inspiring story, beautifully told and illustrated about how Mary Walker Learned to Read. Everyone will appreciate the stirring account of a 116 year old student who believed you are never too old to learn. I totally agree. Love this book!
Uplifting in every aspect!
Oh my goodness, my students love this book! It hits on content that has made my students think deeper and make connections! It engaging, the illustrations are absolutely beautiful and the details are just gorgeous! We loved it! Absolutely recommend to everyone!!
Great book that reminds us it is never too late to achieve goals.
Mary Walker was born into slavery in 1848 and always dreamed to be free. At fifteen, she and her family were freed by the Emancipation Proclamation. As fabulous as freedom was, she still worked long hard days for very little money.She really wanted to learn how to read, but there was no time for that. She received a Bible that she cherished but could not read. The time she would have spent learning to read was taken up with working and raising her family. She still longed to make sense of the squiggles she saw in books.At age 114, she was living in a retirement home. A new reading class was announced in her building and Mary was determined to follow her dream of learning to read. She studied long and hard and finally the scribbles turned into words. She could read her beloved Bible. The US Department of Education proclaimed she was officially the nation’s oldest student.The Oldest Student shares the true-life story of an amazing American, Mary Walker. The easy to read story is perfect for children ages 5 to 9, but not limited to this age group. It will spark inspiration to children who may be having trouble with reading or learning to do something else they are struggling with and inspire them to never give up just like Ms. Walker.Award winning author Rita Lorraine Hubbard is also the author of several other books. One of which, Hammering for Freedom, I have read and enjoyed.Copyright © 2020 Laura Hartman |
39 reviews