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THE LIONS OF LITTLE ROCK

Author Information
Author's Last Name: 
Levine
Author's First Name: 
Kristin
Publisher: 
Putnam
Publication Date: 
2012
2013 Nomination (not yet selected): 

In 1957 the Little Rock Nine integrated Central High School. The following year all the high schools in Little Rock were closed to stop integration. This little-known piece of history is brought to life through the character of 12-year-old Marlee Nisbett, who is so shy she appears mute. Everyone in Marlee's family and community is affected by the closure of the high schools, and when Marlee is faced with bullies, racism and injustice, she finds her voice. 10-14. Lisa Cosgrove-Davies

Comments

Notes for March 23

by ladamson - 03/29/2012 - 10:16am

Notes for March 23 Meeting

Positive Comments:

  • Even though readers know this story, the author uses a fresh and original approach with her choice of the way to present the time and place. 
  • Every family and even the school board members seem incredibly real. 
  • The excellent choice of details gives Little Rock authenticity.
  • Developing Marly realistically shows how hard it is for characters to actually change, that that changing is not miraculous. 

Concerns:

  • The ending seems too neat with getting rid of Red too easy.
  • That someone who loved math did not know the “9’s” trick seems strange.