Martin's Big Words

In Martin's Big Words, Rappaport uses her voice alongside Martin Luther King, Jr.'s to tell the story of Dr. King's life. The book spans Dr. King's life from young boy through the time of his death leaving us with hope that his "big words" still live on.

Rappaport, D. and Collier, B. (2001) Martin's Big Words. New York: HarperCollins.

John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon

Illustrations created using collage and water colors are visually appealing. Music lyrics and quotes are interspersed with free-verse poetry to tell the story of John Lennon's life. The book ends with a timeline of important dates in this musician's life. An interesting way to include 20th century history into a music class or social studies lesson. Teachers could bring music to entice students' interests of a controversial time in the world's history.

Rappaport, D. (2004). John's Secret Dreams. New York City, Hyperion Books for Children