Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry - By: Mildred Taylor - Multicultural Literature

               The 1930’s is not an easy time for African-American families living in Mississippi, especially the Logans.  The Logans have worked hard to own their own land, which is very uncommon for an African- American family during this time. This family and many others have to deal with racial insults and cruelty daily just because of their skin color. The Logans are sick of being treating unfairly and decide to stand up and fight discrimination. In this book, the Logans stick together and fight racism by boycotting a local store, fighting unfair lynch laws, and encouraging others to fight the battle with them.

I would have my children read this book while learning about the Great Depression and American Civil Rights in social studies. After reading the book, I would have a class discussion and tell the students that this book won the Newbery Award. After explaining what this means, I would have my students pretend that they were on the committee who awarded this book. The students would write a letter on why Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry should be awarded. A section should be included about the theme of this book and why other students should read it in their classrooms.