The Watson’s Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

This realistic/historical fiction chapter book reveals issues regarding family, friendship, and prejudices. Kenny Watson and his family, known as the “Weird Watsons,” live in Flint, Michigan. In the beginning of the book, the audience is introduced to the life of Kenny and the rest of the “Weird Watsons”. When Kenny’s father decides that the family is going to visit their grandmother in Birmingham, Alabama, Kenny knows he is in for a treat. However, after they arrive in Birmingham, the Watsons find themselves in a world of prejudice. In the end, Kenny not only learns the meaning of the word prejudice, but also the value of family and friendship. I believe this would be a great book to introduce upper elementary students to prejudices that people may hold. Similarly, I feel that this book could be used as a supplementary material to begin a discussion on the United States, prior to the civil rights movement. Finally, I believe I could use this book to discuss issues that arise in relationships among family and friends, as well as the proper way to handle them.