The Walk

Sometimes complex and controversial topics can be boiled down to the essence through the magic that is a well written picture book. This is certainly the case with Winsome Bingham's The Walk.
Every child, personified as a bright eyed, eager Black girl is finally getting to accompany her Granny on THE WALK. After packing sandwiches and water they set off, collecting a diverse group as they make their way through the neighborhood.
"More stops…
blocks and boulevards…
circles, courts, cul-de-sacs, and a Catholic Church on a corner."
As the crowd gets bigger the girl becomes tired. Her legs are beginning to hurt. Her Granny explains that it wasn't always so long. But people don't want to hear what they have to say.
Can you guess what their destination is?
This is an important book to share with children. Under the guise of stopping voter fraud (which is nearly nonexistent) many states are making laws that deprive many voters of color of this right through measures like gerrymandering, requiring pricey photo IDs, and shutting down voting locations. It's important for kids understand how important voting and protecting other people's right to vote is.
On a purrrsonal note, yesterday after our Governor's breakfast Eugene and I went on a road trip. Of course we stopped in at yard sales. I found the dress I think I'll wear the first day of school.
A great big shout out goes out to Eugene.
Jules Hathaway