The Bus Ride That Changed History
What’s inside...
Now in paperback, this book presents a pivotal moment in history in a format accessible to young readers. In 1955, Rosa Parks made a significant impact on civil rights when she chose not to relinquish her bus seat to a white passenger, despite the bus driver's and Jim Crow laws' demands. Her defiance set off a series of events that ultimately transformed American history. Fifty years on, 'The Bus Ride That Changed History' revisits and unfolds these events, introducing the civil rights movement progressively. This unique narrative revisits the historic moment when Rosa Parks's brave act of remaining seated changed the nation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Rosa Parks felt when she decided not to give up her seat?
Why is it important to stand up for what you believe in, even if it might be difficult?
What changes did Rosa Parks’ actions help bring about?
Can you think of a time when you stood up for something you believed in? How did it make you feel?
How can we, as a family, support fairness and equality for everyone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by summarizing the story with your child to ensure they understand the events and context.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine how they would feel in Rosa Parks’ situation.
Highlight the historical impact of the story and connect it with current real-world examples to illustrate the ongoing relevance of the themes.
Praise your child for sharing their thoughts and feelings about challenging topics, reinforcing that their perspective is valued.
Suggest role-playing different scenarios where they might have to stand up for themselves or others, to help them understand the courage it takes and the impact it can have.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story highlights Rosa Parks' brave decision to remain seated on the bus, despite facing opposition. This act of defiance is a pivotal moment in the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stand up for themselves and others, even when it's difficult. This encourages them to act with integrity and bravery when they encounter injustice.
Example Lesson: The impact of individual actions on social change
Explanation: The book demonstrates how Rosa Parks' singular action on a bus contributed to the larger Civil Rights Movement, emphasizing the ripple effect of one person's actions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that their actions, no matter how small, can contribute to larger societal changes. It encourages them to participate in community and social activities that promote equality and justice.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting historical context
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling, the book sets Rosa Parks' actions within the broader context of the American Civil Rights Movement, helping children understand the historical significance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of historical events and are encouraged to respect and learn from the past, which can foster a deeper understanding of current social issues.
Example Lesson: Empathy and solidarity
Explanation: The narrative portrays the community's response and support for Rosa Parks, showcasing themes of empathy and solidarity amongst the passengers and wider community.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of supporting and empathizing with others, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The power of peaceful protest
Explanation: The book illustrates the effectiveness of peaceful resistance and non-violent protest through the story of the Montgomery bus boycott that followed Rosa Parks' arrest.
Real-World Application: Children learn that change can be achieved through peaceful means, which is critical in understanding how to resolve conflicts and stand up for one's rights in non-aggressive ways.