Children’s Books Can Teach Social Justice

Social justice is a concept of fair and just moral treatment between an individual and society.  This includes the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges. The right to vote is one of the privileges to which all Americans are entitled.

Granddaddy’s Gift is used widely to teach the importance of voting. It is included on the Social Justice Book List which is compiled by the National Network of  State Teachers of the Year (NNSTOY).

When her granddaddy becomes the first black registered voter in their small Mississippi town, Little Joe learns about determination and courage in the face of prejudice.

Excerpts from Book Reviews:

“A sensitive effort from Mitchell, about a courageous man in the segregated South who steadfastly pursued a goal, creating a legacy of pride and hope for the young girl who tells his story.” -Kirkus Reviews

“Johnson’s strong, realistic paintings personalize the familiar scenes of the civil rights movement.” -Booklist

Granddaddy’s Gift is available from Scholastic Books