Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice
by Phillip Hoose
This biography highlights the lesser-known story of Claudette Colvin and her role in the civil rights movement.
Difficulty
Accessible
Pace
Measured
Mood
inspiring, educational
Book club
Medium
Is this book for you?
Read this if you enjoy
- historical accounts of social movements
- you appreciate stories of young activists
Consider another book if
- you prefer fictional narratives
- you dislike non-fiction
What it is about
"Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice" recounts the true story of Claudette Colvin, a young African American girl in Montgomery, Alabama. At the age of 15, she refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in 1955. Colvin's act of defiance occurred nine months before Rosa Parks' more widely recognized protest.
The book explores the social and political climate of the time, highlighting the challenges faced by civil rights activists. It details Colvin's arrest and the subsequent legal battles surrounding her case. Colvin became a key figure in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, though her story remained largely overlooked.
The narrative emphasizes themes of courage, justice, and the importance of youth in activism. Hoose includes interviews and historical context to enrich Colvin's story. The book also addresses the complexities of race and gender in the civil rights movement.
Ultimately, it serves as a testament to Colvin's contributions to the fight for equality.
Award recognition
2009 winner
National Book Award for Young People’s Literature
United States · Young People’s Literature
Reader comments
Loading comments…
Similar award-winning books
Selected from shared categories, regions, award history, and reading profiles.
Inside Out & Back Again
by Thanhha Lai
Also recognised in young adult.
Mockingbird
by Kathryn Erskine
Also recognised in young adult.
What I Saw and How I Lied
by Judy Blundell
Also recognised in young adult.