Tonya Bolden’s meticulous and personal biography of Martin Luther King, Jr., offers young readers compelling insight into the man’s life and work. The author’s description of Reverend King’s uncertainty, fear, and self-doubt lends even greater importance to the difficult moral choices he made while illuminating his devotion to the principle of agape , a “love that has nothing to do with liking a person, a love worthy of people who do you no good and even do you wrong.” An honest account of topics such as King’s uninspired early academic career, the disagreement among the leaders of the civil rights movement regarding his role, and King’s decision to speak out against the war in Vietnam also lend depth and humanity to an iconic figure. Frequent photographs, some familiar and some new, and the judicious use of boxed text and color blocks combine in a visually appealing, inspiring volume. (Ages 10–15)

Coretta Scott King–Honor Winner Tonya Bolden focuses her critical eye on Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the tradition of her award-winning book Maritcha, Tonya Bolden brings words and pictures together to tell the life story of one of America's greatest figures: Martin Luther King, Jr.—or M.L.K. Central to the story is King's belief that agape—the selfless love for one's neighbor—is the rope that binds all peoples together. This philosophy came forward in his sermons, in his daily practice, and especially in his support of nonviolent protests.

More than 80 photographs of M.L.K. preaching, leading marches, being arrested, and overcoming the violence and prejudice around him are juxtaposed with images of his wife and family, of his fellow protestors, and of other leaders of the day. A tribute to a great human being, M.L.K. will surely inspire young readers. Coretta Scott King–Honor Winner Tonya Bolden focuses her critical eye on Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the tradition of her award-winning book Maritcha, Tonya Bolden brings words and pictures together to tell the life story of one of America's greatest figures: Martin Luther King, Jr.—or M.L.K. Central to the story is King's belief that agape—the selfless love for one's neighbor—is the rope that binds all peoples together. This philosophy came forward in his sermons, in his daily practice, and especially in his support of nonviolent protests.

More than 80 photographs of M.L.K. preaching, leading marches, being arrested, and overcoming the violence and prejudice around him are juxtaposed with images of his wife and family, of his fellow protestors, and of other leaders of the day. A tribute to a great human being, M.L.K. will surely inspire young readers.