Gabriel King is afraid of everything: spiders, the rope swing over the lake, and most of all, going to fifth grade. Frita Wilson, his best friend, decides Gabriel needs some liberating from his fears, so they make a list and plan to tackle each one. But one of the reasons Frita is so determined to help Gabe is that she needs his help too. Hollowell, Georgia, in 1976 isn't exactly the most integrated place, and Frita's the only black student in school in a town with an active Ku Klux Klan.More
"Strong voice, lively dialogue, humor, and important themes make this a winner." (Kirkus Reviews)
"The characters here are funny and brave and drawn with candor and immediacy." (Booklist)
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Rare '70s Historical Fiction for kids
This book is great for teaching kids that the civil rights movement is more than just Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. The Liberation of Gabriel King uses a light touch to introduce kids to the Black Panthers, the KKK, and the peanut farmer who won the presidency after America lost faith in the office. The real message of the book, however, about overcoming your fears to stand up to bullies and the power of friendship.
What would your list of fears include? Spiders? Jumping off the high branch into the creek far below? Or perhaps the Klu Klux Klan on your door step? Are you ready to face your fears with two Georgia kids in the hot summer of 1970?
- Mom of little artist
We loved this engaging story