Coretta Scott
on Goodreads (1,166)
What’s inside...
Coretta Scott is a young girl growing up in Alabama who dreams of freedom and equality. She grows up to marry Martin Luther King Jr., and together they become symbols of the civil rights movement. Despite facing numerous challenges, Coretta never gives up her fight for justice. Multiple starred reviews greeted this amazing collaboration between Ntozake Shange and Kadir Nelson. Walking many miles to school in the dusty road, young Coretta knew, too well, the unfairness of life in the segregated south. A yearning for equality began to grow. Together with Martin Luther King, Jr., she gave birth to a vision and a journey—with dreams of freedom for all. This extraordinary union of poetic text by Ntozake Shange and monumental artwork by Kadir Nelson captures the movement for civil rights in the United States and honors its most elegant inspiration, Coretta Scott.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Coretta Scott
Martin Luther King Jr.
Coretta Scott King
Discussion points
What struggles did Coretta Scott face and how did she overcome them?
Why is it important to stand up for what you believe in, like Coretta did?
What qualities do you admire most about Coretta Scott and why?
How can you make a positive change in your community like Coretta?
What does it mean to you to have courage and hope like Coretta Scott?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by explaining the historical context of Coretta Scott's life to ensure the child understands the backdrop of the story.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the challenges Coretta faced, and relate these to their own experiences of overcoming obstacles.
Highlight the character traits of perseverance and courage in Coretta, asking your child how they can exhibit these traits in their own life.
Discuss the importance of kindness and justice, and how Coretta’s actions were driven by these values. Ask your child how they can practice these values daily.
Use examples from the book to inspire a conversation about the impact of individual actions on a community, emphasizing the importance of community support and solidarity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Coretta Scott faced racial discrimination and adversity but continued to fight for civil rights. Her perseverance is highlighted throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children learn that they can overcome challenges and stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
Example Lesson: Importance of education
Explanation: Coretta Scott prioritized education despite societal obstacles. The book emphasizes her journey to gaining higher education.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of education and are encouraged to pursue learning despite any hurdles they might face.
Example Lesson: Working towards social change
Explanation: Coretta Scott collaborated with others, including her husband Martin Luther King Jr., to advocate for equality and human rights, showing teamwork and activism.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working with others and contributing to the community to effect positive change.