Two four six eight, we don't want to integrate.
In November 1960, Ruby Bridges became the first black student to attend William Frantz Public School in New Orleans. Through My Eyes is her recollection of the events which occurred during that school year. From being the only student in the classroom to yelling crowds outside her school, Bridges gives young readers vivid and detailed accounts of the challenges she faced at age six.
This personal narrative is accompanied by powerful photographs that illustrate this dark era in our history. In addition, excerpts from newspapers and comments from individulas familiar with Ruby's tumultuous year at William Frantz are included.
Bridges' language is direct and painfully thorough as she communicates the horrors she experienced as a young child. Each page in the book includes details describing different episodes recounted from Bridges' memory.
One woman screamed at me, "I'm going to poison you. I'll find a way." She made the same threat every morning.
Throughout the book, Bridges cleverly manages to articulate the events through the perspective she had as a young girl. Through My Eyes is a wonderful book for parents and educators to share with children. It can provoke challenging discussions and serve as a reminder that one person can definitely make a difference!
