The Watsons Go to Birmingham -- 1963

Title: The Watsons Go to Birmingham -- 1963
1996 Newbery Honor Book
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Published: 1995
Plot Summary: This historical novel is based on the Birmingham Church bombing which resulted in the deaths of four African American girls. In this novel, 10 year old Kenny light heartedly describes his family's trip to a turbulent South during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. Kenny is jarred by the events that take place in Birmingham. Kenny's brother Byron, his sibling rival, consoles Kenny and helps ease Kenny out of his troubled state.
Main Characters: Kenny, Byron, Wilona, Joetta, Daniel
Theme(s): the family as a shield against racism and discrimination
Reader's Response: Readers reflect on the ways in which people deal with trauma and how they acknowledge and manage their emotions during tough times.
Teaching Idea: Students create a photo gallery of pivotal moments during the 1960s civil rights movement. Students use voice over to provide commentary for each photo.
Grade Level: 6 - 8
Reading Level (Lexile): 1000

Bud, Not Buddy

Title: Bud, Not Buddy
2000 Newbery Medal
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Published: 1999
Plot Summary: Set during the Depression -era, this story is about a 10 year old boy , Buddy Caldwell, who becomes an orphan after his mother dies. His mother leaves Buddy a suitcase filled with family memorabilia in which Buddy finds a possible clue in discovering who his father is. Buddy, in search of identity, hope, and survival, goes on a quest to find his father whom he believes to be a jazz musician in Grand Rapids Michigan.
Major Characters: Buddy Caldwell, Angela Caldwell, Todd Amos, Mr. Herman Calloway
Theme(s): Finding hope in bleak circumstances
Reader's Response: Readers are forced to explored the harsh conditions of American life during the depression era and how racism further complicated life for African Americans during that period.
Teaching Idea: Have students create their own historical graphic novel (3 or 4 slides using PowerPoint) of what life was like during the depression era as a member of a different ethnic group (Polish, German, Irish, African American, etc.) using primary documents such as photos, flyers, art work and music representing that time period. Students can explore economic status, religion, education, etc.
Grade Level: 4 - 6
Reading Level (Lexile): 950