Description

My work will be precious.

I will bridge the "gap" between Black & white...

...and hopefully all people!

I suppose some things in life are just meant to be.

When Ruby Bridges was six years old, she became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Frantz Elementary in Louisiana. Based on the pivotal events that happened in 1960 and told from her point of view, this is a poetic reflection on her experience that changed the face of history and the trajectory of the Civil Rights movement.

I Am Ruby Bridges offers hope and confidence to all children. It is the perfect learning tool for schools and libraries to teach the story of Ruby Bridges and introduce this landmark story to young readers in a powerful new way. This story of innocence and courage is brought to life by NAACP-nominated artist, Nikkolas Smith through stunning and breath-taking illustrations. Embracing the meaning of her name, Bridges reflects with poignancy and heart on the way one brave little girl stood proud to help build a bridge between all people and pave the path for future generations.

About the Author

Ruby Bridges is a civil rights icon, activist, author, and speaker who, at the age of six, was the first Black student to integrate William Frantz Elementary, an all-white elementary school in Louisiana. Bridges is the recipient of numerous awards, including the NAACP Martin Luther King Award and the Presidential Citizens Medal, and she has received honorary doctorate degrees from Connecticut College; College of New Rochelle; Teachers College, Columbia University; and Tulane University. In 2024, Bridges was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Bridges is also the author of I Am Ruby Bridges; Through My Eyes; This Is Your Time; and Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts. Ruby lives in Louisiana with her family. Learn more at rubybridges.com.

Praise For…

Praise for I Am Ruby Bridges:

* "Any picture book collection tackling the Civil Rights Movement has to start here. Highly recommended for all shelves, this exemplary title for history and biography collections shows how the events of the world impact our youngest citizens." -- School Library Journal, starred review

"A unique angle on a watershed moment in the civil rights era." -- Kirkus Reviews

Praise for Through My Eyes:

“Compelling.” -- School Library Journal

“Bridges’s words, recalling a child's innocence and trust, are more vivid than even the best of the photos. Like poetry or prayer, they melt the heart.” -- Publishers Weekly