Grades: K-3rdBased on Ron McNair's life as a young boy, this story is perfect for lower elementary grades. It portrays the segregation of the 1950's and how it effected children their age. Readers experience the courageous mission Ron took on to get his own library card and check out books from Lake City public library. Through peaceful resistance he not only is successful in checking out the desired book, but also leaves an inspiring legacy. I read Ron's Big Mission at my internship last semester to my pre k class. We were studying black history during the month of February so I thought this would be a great book to read aloud. During my read aloud I paused several times to make sure the children understood and were engaged with this book. At the part of the book when Ron tries to check out the books but is told he cannot the children were very confused at first. Their confusion caused for a great discussion about the Jim Crow Laws and the Civil Rights Movement and why we celebrate black history month. At the end of this read aloud I felt accomplished because I had not only engaged the students with a good story but I was also able to use this book as a spring board to teach many other lessons.
I have no shame- a majority of my joy in this book is the fact that the library plays a huge role...
—shina
This book shows children to stand up for what they believe in and dreams really can come true.
—krisstoff66
This book encourages students to dream big and use their imagination.
—Danni
First Grade used this for Men Make A Difference
—catmil
