I Have A Dream


Bibliography
King, Jr., Martin Luther, 2012. I HAVE A DREAM. Ill. by Kadir Nelson. New York, NY: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 9780593518113.

Plot Summary
A beautifully illustrated version on the inspirational speech, I Have a Dream, given by the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the American Civil Rights Movement. Young readers have the chance to read Dr. King's powerful message and visualize the hopeful dream he shared on August 28, 1963; that one day the world will recognize everyone is equal and free, living the American dream. 

Critical Analysis 
This story includes excerpts from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous I Have a Dream speech. Dr. King delivered this powerful speech on August 28, 1963, on the Lincoln Memorial steps, during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. At a time when African Americans were not being seen as equals, Dr. King was encouraging others to see reason and remember everyone was created equal. No adult or child should be judged by the color of their skin, if they are to be judged, it should be of their character. By making personal connections to this powerful topic, Dr. King was able to share with the world his dream of the future; a world where both black and white people work together, dream together, and live freely. Towards the end of the story, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s full speech is shared, in order to provide readers with the full content of this passionate and powerful message.

Kadir Nelson's illustrations beautifully support the strong message behind Dr. King's message. The up close illustrations do not distract readers from the story, as their realistic portrayals bring hope to readers. Hope that one day, many people will understand and strive to fulfill Dr. King's dream, not only for him, but because it would bring peace and equality worldwide. In the book, there are illustrations including Dr. King speaking on the steps of Lincoln Memorial, serene nature scenes in the Southern states of the U.S., and adults and children together, both black and white. The oil painting illustrations will guide meaning to young readers, to better understand Dr. King's vision and the importance of equality, freedom, and faith. 

Review Excerpt(s)
- Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award Winner
- A Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book
- A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of the Year
- A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
- A Publisher's Weekly Best Children's Book of the Year
- A Parent's Choice Silver Honor Book
- A Junior Library Guild Selection
Starred review in KIRKUS REVIEWS: "Captures the passion and purpose of this most notable twentieth-century American speech in beautifully realized oil paintings."
Starred review in PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY: "A glorious interpretation of a bedrock moment in twentieth-century history." 

Connections
- For readers eager to read an authentic, illustrated version of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's I Have a Dream speech.
- Young readers will appreciate this illustrated story to follow the inspiring speech of an important historical figure in American history.
- Similar book recommendations:
Rappaport, Doreen, 2007. MARTIN'S BIG WORDS: THE LIFE OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ISBN 97814231063557.
Meltzer, Brad, 2016. I AM MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ISBN 9780525428527.

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