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The Story of Ruby Bridges
"Please, God, try to forgive those people. Because even if they say those bad things, They don't know what they're doing."
This is the true story of an extraordinary 6-year-old who helped shape history when she became the first African-American sent to first grade in an all white school. This moving book captures the courage of a little girl standing alone in the face of racism.
This is the true story of an extraordinary 6-year-old who helped shape history when she became the first African-American sent to first grade in an all white school. This moving book captures the courage of a little girl standing alone in the face of racism.
32 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1995
97 people are currently reading
4401 people want to read
About the author
Robert Coles
251 books77 followersChild psychiatrist, author, Harvard professor.
Robert Coles is a professor of psychiatry and medical humanities at the Harvard Medical School, a research psychiatrist for the Harvard University Health Services, and the James Agee Professor of Social Ethics at Harvard College.
Robert Coles is a professor of psychiatry and medical humanities at the Harvard Medical School, a research psychiatrist for the Harvard University Health Services, and the James Agee Professor of Social Ethics at Harvard College.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 825 reviews
June 3, 2017
The story of Ruby Bridges is a lovingly illustrated true story of Ruby Bridges. As a young 6 year old girl, growing up in the South during the days of the Civil Rights movement, Ruby was selected by the courts and ordered to attend the all white school of Franz Elementary School. Every morning became a variation of a frightening, degrading experience, with hordes of angry people lining the sidewalks, jeering, shouting insults and worse. How she handles this is what makes this book special, because she was a special girl. The illustrations add a special charm and perspective for both adults and children.
I was really touched when I read Julie’s review on this and knew I wanted to read this. (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) A big thank you to Julie for her review.
I remember the news clips of this, and of the other young black children ordered to attend white schools. These events not only changed their lives, and not only the lives of the others in their classroom, it changed the lives, the futures of everyone whose lives they touched, even if it was only by reading their story in a newspaper or seeing it on the news.
So, I will just say that I agree with Julie – the world does need this book right now. Sixty some years of change, and - sadly - we still have a way to go.
I was really touched when I read Julie’s review on this and knew I wanted to read this. (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...) A big thank you to Julie for her review.
I remember the news clips of this, and of the other young black children ordered to attend white schools. These events not only changed their lives, and not only the lives of the others in their classroom, it changed the lives, the futures of everyone whose lives they touched, even if it was only by reading their story in a newspaper or seeing it on the news.
So, I will just say that I agree with Julie – the world does need this book right now. Sixty some years of change, and - sadly - we still have a way to go.
April 2, 2018
This was a great story that was extremely knowledgeable about Ruby Bridges' life. It is an important read when talking about Civil Rights, because it explains it in easier terms.
October 25, 2022
When I grow up I want to be as courageous and gracious as Ruby Bridges. What she did under such tremendous pressure leaves me speechless. This picture book is about 30 pages in length. The words and pictures communicate volumes. If you have not yet read this little book by Robert Coles with illustrations by George Ford, I recommend you go find a copy. I am pretty sure you can find one at your local library. You will not be sorry.
February 16, 2021
I recommend this short biography, on Ruby Bridges, for teaching young children American history.
In 1960, Ruby was one of four (4) black girls, in New Orleans, ordered to attend then segregated schools. Ruby went to the William Frantz elementary school while the other girls went to another school. She was all alone at school because white parents refused to send their children to school, because of her. Ruby had to be escorted to school each day by U. S. Marshals. Later that year two (2) white boys started to attend.
This is a picture book written by Robert Coles and illustrated by George Ford.
Black History Month Read - 2021
In 1960, Ruby was one of four (4) black girls, in New Orleans, ordered to attend then segregated schools. Ruby went to the William Frantz elementary school while the other girls went to another school. She was all alone at school because white parents refused to send their children to school, because of her. Ruby had to be escorted to school each day by U. S. Marshals. Later that year two (2) white boys started to attend.
This is a picture book written by Robert Coles and illustrated by George Ford.
Black History Month Read - 2021
December 16, 2017
"I pray for me, that I would be strong and not afraid. I pray for my enemies, that God would forgive them."
On November 1960, in New Orleans Ruby Bridges was the first African American student to attend William Frantz Elementary School. Received by a crowd of a white mob, Ruby marched into the school. At six years old, Ruby showed great courage as day after day she got this same welcome. Despite the crowds, Ruby persisted.
WOW, this truly was an amazing story! Ruby Bridges was volunteered by her parents and the NAACP to be the first to integrate the elementary school. On the first day, a mob of white adults showed up to protest. By the third day, Ruby had to have four US marshals escort her into the school as the mob's insults escalated into threats. Shouting chants along the lines of "2 4 6 8, we will never integrate" and parading a black doll in a coffin, the crowd of white adults essentially picked on a six-year-old child that was only trying to get an education. Ruby did not miss a single day, not one. What is more amazing is her maturity and pure heart. She actually prayed for them, for those people that quite literally wished her harm. Miss Bridges had more sense in her pinky than most adults, living and dead. Such was her bravery that Norman Rockwell depicted her in painting titled "The Problem We All Live With". It baffles me that adults would behave in such a horrible way towards a child and but I am more impressed by her reaction. A true hero and a class act. If you want to know what sheer bravery look like, it looks like this:
On a special note, I'd like to mention Barbara Henry. Miss Henry was the only teacher that did not refuse to teach Ruby and just like her student, she showed up everyday. For most of the year, Miss Henry taught Ruby exclusively as the rest of the students were pulled out of the class. Ruby spent the first grade by herself. By the time second grade came around, Ruby managed to wear down the crowd and rightly so.
On November 1960, in New Orleans Ruby Bridges was the first African American student to attend William Frantz Elementary School. Received by a crowd of a white mob, Ruby marched into the school. At six years old, Ruby showed great courage as day after day she got this same welcome. Despite the crowds, Ruby persisted.
WOW, this truly was an amazing story! Ruby Bridges was volunteered by her parents and the NAACP to be the first to integrate the elementary school. On the first day, a mob of white adults showed up to protest. By the third day, Ruby had to have four US marshals escort her into the school as the mob's insults escalated into threats. Shouting chants along the lines of "2 4 6 8, we will never integrate" and parading a black doll in a coffin, the crowd of white adults essentially picked on a six-year-old child that was only trying to get an education. Ruby did not miss a single day, not one. What is more amazing is her maturity and pure heart. She actually prayed for them, for those people that quite literally wished her harm. Miss Bridges had more sense in her pinky than most adults, living and dead. Such was her bravery that Norman Rockwell depicted her in painting titled "The Problem We All Live With". It baffles me that adults would behave in such a horrible way towards a child and but I am more impressed by her reaction. A true hero and a class act. If you want to know what sheer bravery look like, it looks like this:
On a special note, I'd like to mention Barbara Henry. Miss Henry was the only teacher that did not refuse to teach Ruby and just like her student, she showed up everyday. For most of the year, Miss Henry taught Ruby exclusively as the rest of the students were pulled out of the class. Ruby spent the first grade by herself. By the time second grade came around, Ruby managed to wear down the crowd and rightly so.
November 20, 2020
Wow, I felt like I was reading a Patricia Polacco book. I couldn't even finish the ending for a bit, I was crying so hard. Luckily, my 8-year-old wasn't impatient to continue; she was crying right along with me.
I've got a 6-year-old who is also named Ruby. . . and this book and a few others have reminded me that, for some reason, girls named Ruby are often very brave and very strong. Tough little gems.
The world needs this book right now. I wish I could hand out copies.
I've got a 6-year-old who is also named Ruby. . . and this book and a few others have reminded me that, for some reason, girls named Ruby are often very brave and very strong. Tough little gems.
The world needs this book right now. I wish I could hand out copies.
February 5, 2017
Robert Coles, the imminent Harvard child psychiatrist and activist for all children, penned this wonderful book in 1995, the same year I used Civil Rights funds to bring him up to NH for some workshops for teachers and administrators on child welfare and the role of race/racism and poverty in children's resiliency.
An excellent (and only 5 minute) interview with Cole explaining the story of Ruby Bridges in the context of her role in the Civil Rights Movement as the first of a group of six, 6-year old African-American students to have military accompaniment into an all-White elementary school in '60 is here, and it's worth it just for the B&W pictures of the setting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPK3z....
When I had Dr. Coles up working with teachers I remember hearing him repeat some of the what she (and her family, and others) told her about that day that was mostly heartbreaking because of how the experience had damaged her, but there were also Victor Frankl-like moments of grace and courage that were breathtaking. We heard from him how he'd met and provided therapy to Bridges, and came to know her and interviewed her for the book (that had just come out!) Bridges did become an activist and philanthropist for the causes of Civil Rights through the Ruby Bridges Foundation at http://rubybridgesasingh.weebly.com/r....
Robert Cole is such an interdisciplinary thinker and has also (like me!) has taught across at least five different departments, so no wonder I love him! :-) I'd forgotten Harvard had given him an appointment in Social Ethics, as from his Wikipedia page: "(Coles) has taught courses in various schools across Harvard University, including the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Business School, the Law School, the Extension School, and the School of Education, where in 1995 he was given a newly established position as James Agee Professor of Social Ethics."
This is an excellent book for youth and adults. The other learning here that worked for me is to never think you can't pick up a phone and call a "big name" and see if they'd come and work with you and a group on some important issues, even if you have little to no funds to pay them. :-)
An excellent (and only 5 minute) interview with Cole explaining the story of Ruby Bridges in the context of her role in the Civil Rights Movement as the first of a group of six, 6-year old African-American students to have military accompaniment into an all-White elementary school in '60 is here, and it's worth it just for the B&W pictures of the setting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPK3z....
When I had Dr. Coles up working with teachers I remember hearing him repeat some of the what she (and her family, and others) told her about that day that was mostly heartbreaking because of how the experience had damaged her, but there were also Victor Frankl-like moments of grace and courage that were breathtaking. We heard from him how he'd met and provided therapy to Bridges, and came to know her and interviewed her for the book (that had just come out!) Bridges did become an activist and philanthropist for the causes of Civil Rights through the Ruby Bridges Foundation at http://rubybridgesasingh.weebly.com/r....
Robert Cole is such an interdisciplinary thinker and has also (like me!) has taught across at least five different departments, so no wonder I love him! :-) I'd forgotten Harvard had given him an appointment in Social Ethics, as from his Wikipedia page: "(Coles) has taught courses in various schools across Harvard University, including the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Business School, the Law School, the Extension School, and the School of Education, where in 1995 he was given a newly established position as James Agee Professor of Social Ethics."
This is an excellent book for youth and adults. The other learning here that worked for me is to never think you can't pick up a phone and call a "big name" and see if they'd come and work with you and a group on some important issues, even if you have little to no funds to pay them. :-)
August 11, 2018
As a young 6 year old girl, Ruby was one of four blacks selected by the courts and ordered to attend an all white school in New Orleans in 1960. Under the protection of the U.S. Marshals, because the local and state police refused help, Ruby walks into the empty school, past hordes of angry people lining the sidewalks, jeering, shouting insults and worse. Her maturity in handling this situation was truly remarkable. The water color illustrations are charming, but I wanted a little more substance.
September 9, 2021
We need to learn more about young, brave, courageous, strong, extraordinary women. Sharing the story of Ruby Bridges this with our classroom is a new beginning.
November 30, 2011
The Story of Ruby Bridges is a classic example of how courageous, non-violent people and acts helped end the civil rights movement. I read this book to my class every year at least once, so that they can see the power a young school girl had just through her actions. Every time I read this story, I am inspired to make sure that my students are not limited to the opportunities that they have in school. The story begins by introducing Ruby, a young African-American girl growing up in the South during the Civil Rights movement. When Ruby is ordered by the court to attend an all white school, angry protests break out. Although Ruby is threatened everyday when she enters and exits school, she never gets discouraged. In fact she prays for the angry protestors to change their ways. Although the steps she took were small, they made a big difference in her school, her state and eventually her actions were a factor which contributed into the end of Civil Rights movement. George Ford, the illustrator of this book, uses watercolor paintings to depict the uneasy atmosphere of the books setting. His use of double page bleeds throughout the book makes the reader feel intimate with the characters, like they are going to school right alongside Ruby. The watercolor paints are mixed with acrylic ink and conventional drawings, which have a realistic feel to them, without depicting the angry crowds as scary, or unsettling to young readers. The story and images work in harmony, as the reader travels through the civil rights movement. Dr. Robert Coles and George Ford do an excellent job showing the unfair inequalities of the time period through the innocent eye of a child. It is through this perspective, that the reader can see how outrageous the laws were at this time to make a young person, so positive and innocent, be the trailblazer for change. And with this being a true story, it gives hope to young readers that they too can be trailblazers for change in the world, even at a young age.
September 9, 2021
On National Picture Day, today I want to take a moment to honor Ruby Bridges. ✏️📚🧃👧🏾❤️ 🌟
December 31, 2024
Child psychiatrist Robert Coles, is (according to journalist Scott London) perhaps “best known for his explorations of children's lives and books that explore their moral, political, and spiritual sensibilities.” He was eminently qualified to write a picture book about Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to attend, in 1960, a whites-only elementary school. Coles apparently witnessed the six-year-old enter the school accompanied by armed US marshalls, and he subsequently supported the girl and her family through what can only be described as an ordeal.
This is a simple but beautiful and powerful picture book. It opens with a few details about Ruby’s early life. She was born in Mississippi where her daddy worked hard to support his family by picking crops. He lost that job when the owners of the land brought in farm equipment. The family subsequently moved to New Orleans, where her father got janitorial work and her mother stayed home with Ruby and her siblings by day and scrubbed the floors of banks by night. The family was extremely poor.
In 1960 when a judge ordered that four black girls were to be allowed to attend two white elementary schools (in the fully segregated New Orleans school system), the Bridges were proud that Ruby had been selected. They prayed for strength and courage and that the little girl would be “a credit to her people.” She was the only one of the four children to attend William Frantz Elementary.
Ruby was from a deeply spiritual family. Her mother wanted the children to feel “close to God” and ensured that everyone attended church every Sunday.
Familiar as I am with Ruby’s story and others similar to it, I have to say that reading a picture book about the hate spewed at this tidy little girl with a bow in her hair was enough to make me weep. She said not a word to those who called her names and threatened her. The abuse went on for months.
Also for months, Ruby was the only child in her grade-one class. Her teacher, Mrs. Henry, was struck by how polite and relaxed the girl was. There was no anxiety, irritability, or fear on display. Ruby was calmly committed to learning to read and write.
One morning from a school window, Mrs. Henry saw Ruby speaking to the people screaming at her. The teacher was later to find out that the little girl hadn’t been talking to them at all; she had been praying for these people who hated her, asking God to forgive them as Jesus had long ago forgiven those who’d been terrible to him. Uncharacteristically, that morning, Ruby had forgotten the prayers she usually said a few blocks before she reached the school, so she pronounced them at the school’s doorstep.
In an afterword, Coles explains that Ruby did not remain the sole student in the classroom. Later that year, a couple of white boys were sent back to school because they were getting into too much trouble at home. The mob was pretty angry with them, too. In time, however, more children returned, and by Ruby’s grade-two year, the hateful crowd had given up. The author also explains that Ruby finished elementary and high school, married a contractor, had four sons, and created The Ruby Bridges Foundation.
To conclude, I want to quote from Scott London’s excellent article on Coles, which I was very glad to have found online:
“Coles feels that we learn our most lasting moral lessons through stories. Storytelling, in the form of both personal narratives and the established literary tradition, gives us a fuller understanding of ourselves and the experiences of others. ‘The whole point of stories,’ he observes, ‘is not “solutions” or “resolutions” but a broadening and even heightening of our struggles.’ They remind us of what is important in life, admonish us, point us in new directions, engage us in self-reflection, and sometimes inspire us to lead lives of moral integrity. The beauty of a story, he says, is in its openness — ‘the way you or I can take it in, and use it for ourselves.’”
This simple picture book surely inspires young readers to understand something about the courage of a very young person in the face of hate. I can see it being used with children as young as Ruby was at the time of her experience and even with young teenagers.
This is a simple but beautiful and powerful picture book. It opens with a few details about Ruby’s early life. She was born in Mississippi where her daddy worked hard to support his family by picking crops. He lost that job when the owners of the land brought in farm equipment. The family subsequently moved to New Orleans, where her father got janitorial work and her mother stayed home with Ruby and her siblings by day and scrubbed the floors of banks by night. The family was extremely poor.
In 1960 when a judge ordered that four black girls were to be allowed to attend two white elementary schools (in the fully segregated New Orleans school system), the Bridges were proud that Ruby had been selected. They prayed for strength and courage and that the little girl would be “a credit to her people.” She was the only one of the four children to attend William Frantz Elementary.
Ruby was from a deeply spiritual family. Her mother wanted the children to feel “close to God” and ensured that everyone attended church every Sunday.
Familiar as I am with Ruby’s story and others similar to it, I have to say that reading a picture book about the hate spewed at this tidy little girl with a bow in her hair was enough to make me weep. She said not a word to those who called her names and threatened her. The abuse went on for months.
Also for months, Ruby was the only child in her grade-one class. Her teacher, Mrs. Henry, was struck by how polite and relaxed the girl was. There was no anxiety, irritability, or fear on display. Ruby was calmly committed to learning to read and write.
One morning from a school window, Mrs. Henry saw Ruby speaking to the people screaming at her. The teacher was later to find out that the little girl hadn’t been talking to them at all; she had been praying for these people who hated her, asking God to forgive them as Jesus had long ago forgiven those who’d been terrible to him. Uncharacteristically, that morning, Ruby had forgotten the prayers she usually said a few blocks before she reached the school, so she pronounced them at the school’s doorstep.
In an afterword, Coles explains that Ruby did not remain the sole student in the classroom. Later that year, a couple of white boys were sent back to school because they were getting into too much trouble at home. The mob was pretty angry with them, too. In time, however, more children returned, and by Ruby’s grade-two year, the hateful crowd had given up. The author also explains that Ruby finished elementary and high school, married a contractor, had four sons, and created The Ruby Bridges Foundation.
To conclude, I want to quote from Scott London’s excellent article on Coles, which I was very glad to have found online:
“Coles feels that we learn our most lasting moral lessons through stories. Storytelling, in the form of both personal narratives and the established literary tradition, gives us a fuller understanding of ourselves and the experiences of others. ‘The whole point of stories,’ he observes, ‘is not “solutions” or “resolutions” but a broadening and even heightening of our struggles.’ They remind us of what is important in life, admonish us, point us in new directions, engage us in self-reflection, and sometimes inspire us to lead lives of moral integrity. The beauty of a story, he says, is in its openness — ‘the way you or I can take it in, and use it for ourselves.’”
This simple picture book surely inspires young readers to understand something about the courage of a very young person in the face of hate. I can see it being used with children as young as Ruby was at the time of her experience and even with young teenagers.
February 11, 2020
I picked this up as part of the list of children's black history month books. I found it very preachy compared to other books about Ruby Bridges, including the book she wrote herself. I didn't enjoy the book much, especially since the story doesn't seem to match any of the other stories about Ruby Bridges.
February 15, 2024
African American History Month: book number 3.
4.5 Stars, rounded up.
5+++++ Stars for little Ruby!
(Somehow I accidentally deleted my review)
The racism in New Orleans in 1960 was horrific!!!
4.5 Stars, rounded up.
5+++++ Stars for little Ruby!
(Somehow I accidentally deleted my review)
The racism in New Orleans in 1960 was horrific!!!
February 28, 2020
This is a required story I must read for a college course but I am glad it came across my radar. What an inspiring story and a beautiful reminder of what really matters and who is in charge over all. I loved her prayers before and after facing down that crowd and her prayer was for those very souls who were tormenting her. I am humbled and inspired.
February 17, 2019
The Story Of Ruby Bridges is a children's picture book written by Robert Coles and illustrated by George Ford. It is a cursory biography about the childhood of Ruby Bridges and how she dealt with being the very first black girl going to school after segregation has been outlawed.
February, at least in my part of the world is Black History Month, which I plan to read one children's book, particularly a biography, which pertains to the subject everyday this month. Therefore, I thought that this book would be apropos for today.
Ruby Nell Bridges Hall is an American civil rights activist. She was the first African-American child to desegregate the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis in 1960.
Coles' text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. It tells the early life of Ruby Bridges and how bravely walked to school, among crowds of protesters, to go to school after segregation was deemed illegal. Ford's illustrations are drawn wonderfully well and depicted the narrative rather well also.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Desegregation was so unpopular in Louisiana that throngs of protesters berated Ruby Bridges, a black schoolgirl, as she walked to school daily. It was so unpopular that the police would not protect Ruby Bridges that the secret service was brought in to walk her to school every day. It was so unpopular that parents took their children out of school, which makes her the only child at school.
All in all, The Story Of Ruby Bridges is a wonderful and informative biography of Ruby Bridges as she bravely walked to school every day to confront an angry mob and lonesomeness in school, but remained upbeat and steadfast in her faith.
February, at least in my part of the world is Black History Month, which I plan to read one children's book, particularly a biography, which pertains to the subject everyday this month. Therefore, I thought that this book would be apropos for today.
Ruby Nell Bridges Hall is an American civil rights activist. She was the first African-American child to desegregate the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis in 1960.
Coles' text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. It tells the early life of Ruby Bridges and how bravely walked to school, among crowds of protesters, to go to school after segregation was deemed illegal. Ford's illustrations are drawn wonderfully well and depicted the narrative rather well also.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. Desegregation was so unpopular in Louisiana that throngs of protesters berated Ruby Bridges, a black schoolgirl, as she walked to school daily. It was so unpopular that the police would not protect Ruby Bridges that the secret service was brought in to walk her to school every day. It was so unpopular that parents took their children out of school, which makes her the only child at school.
All in all, The Story Of Ruby Bridges is a wonderful and informative biography of Ruby Bridges as she bravely walked to school every day to confront an angry mob and lonesomeness in school, but remained upbeat and steadfast in her faith.
November 20, 2012
Main Characters: Ruby
Settings: 1960, New Orleans
P.O.V: First Person
Summary: The book is a short biography of Ruby Bridges in 1960 when her family moved from Mississippi to New Orleans. The family wanted a better life. The family dealt with discrimination and segregation considering they were Black in a primarily White town. A judge ordered Ruby to attend an all White school for first grade called Frantz Elementary School. Ruby faced harsh words, punishment and discrimination while attending the school. No one would sit in a classroom with her since she was Black. She was so strong and smart. Ruby faced angry mobs or parents and community members. She continues to go to the school and later was able to overcome the racism and unjustness of the school and other Blacks were slowly allowed to come to the school.
Lexile: 730 L
Classroom uses/Themes: I absolutely love this book. It is powerful and extraordinary. It shows the courage and bravery that young Ruby possessed while going through so much hardship just to receive a decent education in the 1960’s. I would definitely use this book in a classroom that ranged from grades 1-4. This is the perfect read aloud or read alone book. It is a great way to discuss Civil Rights and racism in the classroom with younger students who cannot fully grasp the concept with an actually history textbook. I would incorporate themes such as Black History, courage, honor, determination, perseverance, segregation, racism, and prejudice. Students love this book because it has great big words and beautiful pictures that perfectly depict the story of Ruby Bridges.
Settings: 1960, New Orleans
P.O.V: First Person
Summary: The book is a short biography of Ruby Bridges in 1960 when her family moved from Mississippi to New Orleans. The family wanted a better life. The family dealt with discrimination and segregation considering they were Black in a primarily White town. A judge ordered Ruby to attend an all White school for first grade called Frantz Elementary School. Ruby faced harsh words, punishment and discrimination while attending the school. No one would sit in a classroom with her since she was Black. She was so strong and smart. Ruby faced angry mobs or parents and community members. She continues to go to the school and later was able to overcome the racism and unjustness of the school and other Blacks were slowly allowed to come to the school.
Lexile: 730 L
Classroom uses/Themes: I absolutely love this book. It is powerful and extraordinary. It shows the courage and bravery that young Ruby possessed while going through so much hardship just to receive a decent education in the 1960’s. I would definitely use this book in a classroom that ranged from grades 1-4. This is the perfect read aloud or read alone book. It is a great way to discuss Civil Rights and racism in the classroom with younger students who cannot fully grasp the concept with an actually history textbook. I would incorporate themes such as Black History, courage, honor, determination, perseverance, segregation, racism, and prejudice. Students love this book because it has great big words and beautiful pictures that perfectly depict the story of Ruby Bridges.
March 26, 2017
This book is a great way to introduce children to race relations in this country. It provides a clear look at history and a brave girl their own age to inspire them.
I realize it is unusual to review a picture book without commenting on the illustrations. I really liked the book but had mixed feelings about the illustrations. Perhaps because there is a famous photo of the real Ruby Bridges that is etched in my memory, these images didn't enchant me the way the story did although they are certainly serviceable. Here is a link to my review:
http://perfectretort.blogspot.com/201...
I realize it is unusual to review a picture book without commenting on the illustrations. I really liked the book but had mixed feelings about the illustrations. Perhaps because there is a famous photo of the real Ruby Bridges that is etched in my memory, these images didn't enchant me the way the story did although they are certainly serviceable. Here is a link to my review:
http://perfectretort.blogspot.com/201...
May 1, 2014
A beautiful book which tells the true story of the incredible Ruby Bridges, who at age six, walked through an angry, hate filled crowd to attend school, and in the midst of the crowd's angry taunts, prayed for those who reviled her.
November 2, 2019
As a result of having recently read Robert Caro's Pulitzer-Prize-winning Master of the Senate I became interested in the history of the Civil Rights movement in the United States. I am now reading Taylor Branch's Pulitzer-Prize-winning Parting the Waters, which will take up a good portion of the rest of this calendar year for me to finish. In my education on the subject I came across the story of Ruby Bridges.
As a small 6-year-old girl in 1960 Ruby attended a previously-segregated white school in New Orleans, as ordered by a federal court. Angry mobs awaited her each day as she walked to school escorted by armed federal agents. The parents of all the other students in the school refused to allow their children to attend, and every teacher at the school, except one, refused to teach there as long as Ruby Bridges was enrolled. Like Rosa Parks before her, Ruby Bridges was a pioneer in the Civil Rights movement.
I don't know how to include pictures into my review, so I will merely supply a couple of links to some images and descriptions of this story. The first is a painting about the experience by the great Norman Rockwell. The second contains some actual photographs from the experience, including some of the angry mobs.
https://www.childrensdefense.org/chil...
https://medium.com/@markricks/rubybri...
I have a hard time understanding how people can feel so threatened by one little girl, whether her skin is white, black, or anything in between. Even though we have come a long way since 1960, the irrational fear that so many people have of others (even little children) who are different in some way still seems to be rampant. As one small example I would cite the ongoing caging of thousands of people, including toddlers and little children, that occurs at our nation's borders at the direction of the current undemocratically-selected president of the United States.
This book is specifically for children. It very much simplifies the issue as it tells it from the little girl's point of view. It wisely avoids delving into the legal, historical, and cultural issues that created such an environment in the mid-century South. But it succeeds in telling the story, in words and with the help of some very good illustrations, in a way that is sure to bring some light and interest to this issue for anyone who wishes it. Many other works abound for those who want a fuller picture.
As a small 6-year-old girl in 1960 Ruby attended a previously-segregated white school in New Orleans, as ordered by a federal court. Angry mobs awaited her each day as she walked to school escorted by armed federal agents. The parents of all the other students in the school refused to allow their children to attend, and every teacher at the school, except one, refused to teach there as long as Ruby Bridges was enrolled. Like Rosa Parks before her, Ruby Bridges was a pioneer in the Civil Rights movement.
I don't know how to include pictures into my review, so I will merely supply a couple of links to some images and descriptions of this story. The first is a painting about the experience by the great Norman Rockwell. The second contains some actual photographs from the experience, including some of the angry mobs.
https://www.childrensdefense.org/chil...
https://medium.com/@markricks/rubybri...
I have a hard time understanding how people can feel so threatened by one little girl, whether her skin is white, black, or anything in between. Even though we have come a long way since 1960, the irrational fear that so many people have of others (even little children) who are different in some way still seems to be rampant. As one small example I would cite the ongoing caging of thousands of people, including toddlers and little children, that occurs at our nation's borders at the direction of the current undemocratically-selected president of the United States.
This book is specifically for children. It very much simplifies the issue as it tells it from the little girl's point of view. It wisely avoids delving into the legal, historical, and cultural issues that created such an environment in the mid-century South. But it succeeds in telling the story, in words and with the help of some very good illustrations, in a way that is sure to bring some light and interest to this issue for anyone who wishes it. Many other works abound for those who want a fuller picture.
April 4, 2018
Fantastic! I love Ruby's sass. What a great historical moment to share with children, most of whom will likely not believe that parents kept their kids out of school because of a six-year-old black girl.
February 12, 2019
This is a children’s book that tells the story of Ruby Bridges. She is a young girl and one of the first black children to enter and be taught in a “white” school in the days following the end of segregation.
December 21, 2024
I'm stunned.
This story is beautiful, painful, and deeply deeply meaningful. Tears filled my eyes as I read the end.
I won’t spoil it for you, but read it.
The Afterward ties up all the loose strings.
The illustrations are wonderful, too!
This story is beautiful, painful, and deeply deeply meaningful. Tears filled my eyes as I read the end.
I won’t spoil it for you, but read it.
The Afterward ties up all the loose strings.
The illustrations are wonderful, too!
May 11, 2019
Inspiring story! This one was so meaningful and brought warmth to our hearts as we read it aloud. Times were hard for Ruby B., but she set a great example.
May 24, 2021
A perfect story about courage, faith, and love. Ruby Bridges really is a hero, and I want to read this book to my boy!
February 22, 2017
The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles is a sad reminder of where our country was in 1960 but a great reminder of the people who's character and kindness brought us out of it. This biography is the story of a very young African American girl named Ruby Bridges. She lived in New Orleans with her family during school segregation. A judge ordered Ruby and 3 other girls to attend white elementary schools. She was the only one who was sent to William Frantz Elementary. She was not welcomed to say the least. Large crowds of white people came to school for months to protest loudly. Federal Marshals had to escort her into the school every day. She had to endure months of being the only student in her classroom and the school. Other parents refused to send their children to school with her.
I really enjoyed how this book highlighted the strong character of such a young girl. To say Ruby Bridges is a hero is an understatement! The author emphasized the faith in God that her family had and taught to Ruby. It was clear that Ruby used that faith to deal with this hardship. She prayed daily for the people protesting her going to school. The author also used Ruby's teacher, Mrs. Henry, to help us see that Ruby was relaxed and hopeful at school. She never wanted to quit. This is a great story to share with students of all ages when teaching endurance and kindness no matter what your circumstances. Ruby Bridges is definitely a person that I will remember and admire for years.
I really enjoyed how this book highlighted the strong character of such a young girl. To say Ruby Bridges is a hero is an understatement! The author emphasized the faith in God that her family had and taught to Ruby. It was clear that Ruby used that faith to deal with this hardship. She prayed daily for the people protesting her going to school. The author also used Ruby's teacher, Mrs. Henry, to help us see that Ruby was relaxed and hopeful at school. She never wanted to quit. This is a great story to share with students of all ages when teaching endurance and kindness no matter what your circumstances. Ruby Bridges is definitely a person that I will remember and admire for years.
March 9, 2017
The Story of Ruby Bridges tells an extraordinary story of a brave young girl who was the first African American to attend first grade at an all white school during segregation. Even though others were against this and called Ruby names, this did not stop Ruby from going to school. The illustrations throughout the book made me feel like I was in the moment. This book pulled at my emotions, wondering how people could be so mean, yet Ruby prayed for them. This book was a WOW book for me because it inspires me to be kind to all people and if people do not like me to simply pray for them. With all the bad in the world, this book will encourage people to be mindful of the golden rule, treat others as you want to be treated.
The Story of Ruby Bridges is a courageous biography that can be used throughout grades 3-5. It can be a read aloud during Black History Month to highlight the impact Ruby made on history. This book can be used to address students about treating others fairly. While learning about biographies, teachers could assign this book to a group of students to study Ruby Bridges. Lastly, this book could be used while studying segregation to talk about how black students could not attend the same schools as whites.
The Story of Ruby Bridges is a courageous biography that can be used throughout grades 3-5. It can be a read aloud during Black History Month to highlight the impact Ruby made on history. This book can be used to address students about treating others fairly. While learning about biographies, teachers could assign this book to a group of students to study Ruby Bridges. Lastly, this book could be used while studying segregation to talk about how black students could not attend the same schools as whites.
May 11, 2016
Title: The Story of Ruby Bridges
Bibliography:
Coles, R., & Ford, G. (1995). The story of Ruby Bridges. New York: Scholastic.
Annotation: Young Ruby Bridges is a first grader trying to attend school during segregation. School is a lonely place with just her teacher to keep her company. An angry mob waits outside to yell at her every morning but Ruby finds the courage to continue to go to school and even to pray for forgiveness for those who hate her.
Genre: Biography/Nonfiction
Grade Level: 2-5; 5.4
Readers who will like this book: Readers who like reading about Civil Rights, brave girls, or injustice will like this book.
Personal Response and Rating: I rate this book a four out of five. It was a very touching book with a strong sense of courage on the part of Young Ruby. I think a lot of students would like to hear and should hear her story.
Text-Dependent Question:
According to the text, why does Ruby do every day before she goes to school?
How do you think the illustrations affect the story?
According to the text, how did Ruby’s family feel about her attending what was previously a white school?
Bibliography:
Coles, R., & Ford, G. (1995). The story of Ruby Bridges. New York: Scholastic.
Annotation: Young Ruby Bridges is a first grader trying to attend school during segregation. School is a lonely place with just her teacher to keep her company. An angry mob waits outside to yell at her every morning but Ruby finds the courage to continue to go to school and even to pray for forgiveness for those who hate her.
Genre: Biography/Nonfiction
Grade Level: 2-5; 5.4
Readers who will like this book: Readers who like reading about Civil Rights, brave girls, or injustice will like this book.
Personal Response and Rating: I rate this book a four out of five. It was a very touching book with a strong sense of courage on the part of Young Ruby. I think a lot of students would like to hear and should hear her story.
Text-Dependent Question:
According to the text, why does Ruby do every day before she goes to school?
How do you think the illustrations affect the story?
According to the text, how did Ruby’s family feel about her attending what was previously a white school?
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September 27, 2012This book almost made me cry! The civil rights movement and the stories about the families that lived through this time is tough to read about. I found myself getting very angry also while I read this book, and I really wanted to ''go inside the book'' and tell the crowd of people to stop behaving like they did. The part that touched me the most was when I read Ruby's prayer. It was so touching and inspiering. As Martin Luther King said, Love is the key to the world's problems. I really saw that Ruby responded the mobb with love. She did not fight back with horrible words in anger, but instead she prayed for them and excused their behavior on their behalf. Her actions shows how wonderful and strong Ruby is. Ruby was only 6 years of age, and her ability to show empathy and respect is incredible. I have never actually read any books that were about the time when the civil rights movement was, and by reading this book, I got a whole new view on how it was before.
November 16, 2019
This is such an important book for kids to read! It tells the true story of six-year-old Ruby Bridges who grew up in the South during the Civil Rights movement. She was permitted to attend an all-white school, but when she did, white people not only kept their children home, many protested as well. So each day Ruby walked through the angry mob and went to school by herself. I used this text for part of a fourth grade Ruby Bridges mini unit I wrote for (RL.4.5) comparing poems, drama, and prose as we also read a Ruby Bridges poem, a nonfiction book, and watched the movie. This is a must-have book for any elementary classroom library.
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