This book was recommended to me as part of reading diverse books, teaching history and building compassion in kids. The description of the books is as follows:
Ruth was so excited to take a trip in her family’s new car! In the early 1950s, few African-Americans could afford to buy cars, so this would be an adventure. But she soon found out that black travelers weren’t treated very well in some towns. Many hotels and gas stations refused service to black people. Daddy was upset about something called Jim Crow laws…
Finally, a friendly attendant at a gas station showed Ruth’s family The Green Book. It listed all of the places that would welcome black travelers. With this guidebook–and the kindness of strangers–Ruth could finally make a safe journey from Chicago to her grandma’s house in Alabama.
Ruth’s story is fiction, but The Green Book and its role in helping a generation of African-American travelers avoid some of the indignities of Jim Crow are historical fact.
I had just taken this children’s book out of the library and read it. I was looking to order a copy when we headed out on spring break to see a car museum. While at the museum, much to my delight and surprise, was an entire display of The Green Book, including Ruth and the Green Book story book. How amazing it was to see artifacts and life-size version of the story. Such a wonderful teaching moment!!
Find this book and read it! Such a powerful story. Necessary history to teach our children.
Peace.
