The Harvey Milk Story illustrated by by David Gardner and written by Kari Krakow is one of the most wonderful kids' books I've come across.
The story of the "little kid with the big ears makes history" is also a warm, engaging story of one man who made a real difference in the lives of so many people. But the book isn't pedantic about Milk in any way. Instead, he's a real, living, breathing person on the page, owning a photography shop that becomes a meeting place, fighting for the rights of gay people, and going on to leadership. There's a wry sense of humor in the book and the terrific illustrations are full of warmth.
What is so great about this book is that my son spotted it on my desk, and took it and read it and then had all sorts of thoughtful questions about why anyone would want to kill someone just because he was gay.
Why indeed.
Books can open minds, and hopefully, change them, too. I can't wait for the upcoming Sean Penn Harvey Milk film, but in the meantime, go grab up this book.
Yay for Max! That comment gives me hope for the next generation.
ReplyDeleteC:
ReplyDeleteWow... what a masterstroke for a kid's book! Brilliant.
And good for Max... it's good to know there are healthy kids growing up to be adults.
Can a book on Rue Paul be far behind?
J
I am sending a copy of this book to the public school system and our public library. I hope it will encourage many discussions. Here in the South, we are still behind in embracing diversity of any kind. Beautiful works of art always help to break down barriers.
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI am one of the two owners of the company that published this book. We thank you SO much and feel terribly honored that you would post about it so positively, as it is a book we are very proud of. Harvey's story will become more widely known this fall with the release of the Sean Penn film, but we published the book for the lasting importance of Harvey's story.
Thank you again (and to the posters for their positive comments) for bringing this title of ours to your reader's attention. Sally L
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI am one of the two owners of the company that published this book. We thank you SO much and feel terribly honored that you would post about it so positively, as it is a book we are very proud of. Harvey's story will become more widely known this fall with the release of the Sean Penn film, but we published the book for the lasting importance of Harvey's story.
Thank you again (and to the posters for their positive comments) for bringing this title of ours to your reader's attention. Sally L