  | Unstoppable : how Bayard Rustin organized the 1963 March on Washington Author: Long, Michael G. | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
Tells the story of how openly gay civil rights leader Bayard Rustin defied prejudice as he planned and organized the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
| Illustrator: | Jackson, Bea |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (05/15/23)
Booklist (+) (04/15/23)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 04/15/2023 *Starred Review* The 1963 March on Washington and Martin Luther King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech would never have happened if not for Bayard Rustin, the individual behind the conception, organization, and management of the event. Using straightforward prose, this engaging biography effectively describes how “troublemaker” Rustin, inspired by another troublemaker named Mohandas Gandhi, successfully organized peaceful protests against war, nuclear weapons, segregated schools, and housing and employment discrimination. He feared that his largest undertaking—his envisioned March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom—might get derailed due not just to political resistance but also to personal attacks because he was gay. Other Black leaders, including King and John Lewis, supported Rustin, and the text details Rustin’s extensive preparations: volunteers, advertising, travel arrangements, first-aid stations, free lunches, portable toilets, and education about nonviolent protest. The colorful, expressive illustrations align perfectly with the text and help convey the enormity of the 250,000-plus crowd that assembled that day. Back matter includes recommended reading and an author’s note (Rustin and about 500 others meticulously cleaned up the entire parade route afterward to deter any accusations of disorder). This standard-length picture book thoughtfully addresses basic human rights and introduces young readers to an important behind-the-scenes hero. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.
