A Time to Act: John F. Kennedy’s Big Speech
Age Range: 8 and up
Grade Level: 2 - 3
School Library Journal Best Book of 2017
Junior Library Guild Selection 2017
Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017
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SUMMARY
Acclaimed author Shana Corey and New York Times Best Illustrated, Caldecott Honor, and Coretta Scott King Honor–winning artist R. Gregory Christie deliver a fresh look at President John F. Kennedy and his relationship with the civil rights movement.
This is the story of JFK—from his childhood to the events that led to his game-changing speech and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Corey and Christie offer a deeply human look America’s thirty-fifth president. No matter who we are, we have the power to make a difference.
With quotes from JFK’s speeches, detailed back matter, and a thought-provoking author’s note, this biography—in time for what would be JFK's 100th birthday—offers a look at a tumultuous time in history and inspires others to make positive changes.
REVIEWS
“Excellent. The dramatic and innovative illustrations beautifully capture a place in time and the people who inhabited it. The back matter is powerful addition to a most thoughtful book.”—Booklist
”A story of John Kennedy's short but historic life that rings with truth and excitement. Readers of all ages... will appreciate this moving lesson in American history.”—Senator Harris Wofford, President John F. Kennedy's Special Assistant on Civil Rights
”...a well-crafted book that respects the complex president Kennedy was, respects child readers, and respects the sometimes thorny intricacies of conviction. Be sure to find a copy, come April.” — Julie Danielson, Kirkus Reviews
”This is a timely and relevant book...Corey’s prose rings natural and true, and will definitely feel relatable to young teens and ‘tweens who are seeking to define themselves and their principals. Artist R. Gregory Christie’s illustrations of children with elongated necks and determined faces courageously carrying the signs that demand equality all help to loan a collage-ish look and feel to this important book. Use this to teach tolerance, equality, integration, social studies, and the fundamentals of American laws.” —Rita Lorraine Hubbard, New York Journal of Books