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THE LIONS OF LITTLE ROCK
Kristin Levine
GP Putnum Sons
January 5, 2012
298 pages
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This is a powerful book set in Little Rock, Arkansas. 1958. It is the dawn of the civil rights movement. There is conflict due to school integration. Of course, that problem finds its roots in racism. Should it happen or not? This is an intermediate school level book. Written from the perspective of 12 year old Marlee who has befriended Liz, another 12 year old who is “passing” as white.
Marlee is such a strong girl, though she starts out on the timid side, unable to verbalize her thoughts out loud. With the help of Liz and Marlee’s own determination, she learns how to make her voice heard and matter. She is strong in her beliefs.
There are many subjects touched on besides racism. Communism, misogyny, bullying, relationships. Racism has never been resolved but it seems to be more prominent again in the last 10 years or so. For that reason, I think this book should be required reading for anyone age 12 and up. It may be uncomfortable for some, but that’s ok. It can be a learning experience for young people and for adults, it can serve as a reminder of what the movement for Civil Rights was up against.
The end of the book was satisfying. Of course, Marlee did not solve all the racial issues, but she did learn that it is important to do whatever you can. The ending was full of hope.
The author’s note at the afterwards describes the historic events that led up the this story. It was a learning experience for me.
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