Book List

Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Carrying the Dream Forward: Honoring Dr. King Through Literacy

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a moment in history—it’s a call to action that resonates through time. In honor of Dr. King’s enduring legacy, we’ve curated a thoughtful selection of books that illuminate his life, his vision, and the movement that transformed a nation. These stories not only honor the courage and resilience of the Civil Rights Movement but also inspire the next generation to dream big and stand for justice.

At CLI, we believe in the power of literacy to open minds, build bridges, and spark change. This MLK Day, let’s celebrate by sharing stories that teach us to love one another and work together for a brighter, more equitable future.

We invite you to explore these impactful titles with your young reader and join us in CLI’s mission to create communities of care, courage, and compassion. Sign up for our online community to stay connected, share your journey, and take part in the work of transforming lives through the power of literacy.

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Together, let’s honor Dr. King by living his ethos of service, equality, and love.

Books to Spark Change and Build Community

Martin’s Big Words

Martin’s Big Words
Doreen Rappaport (Author),
Bryan Collier (Illustrator)

Follow the journey of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in this inspiring picture book. Growing up in the segregated South, Martin was shaped by his parents’ teachings of equality and love. As a minister, he preached words that fueled the civil rights movement and changed the world.

This book introduces young readers to Dr. King’s powerful speeches, paired with stunning collage art that brings his story to life. A timeless reminder of the power of words to inspire change and build a better future.

Additional Titles
A Place to Land: Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Speech That Inspired a Nation
Barry Wittenstein & Jerry Pinkney
The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem’s Greatest Bookstore
Vaunda M. Nelson & R. Gregory Christie
I Have a Dream
Martin Luther King, Jr. & Kadir Nelson
Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer
Carole B. Weatherford & Ekua Holmes
Rosa
Nikki Giovanni & Bryan Collier
Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up By Sitting Down
Andrea Davis Pinkney & Brian Pinkney
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Laurie Calkhoven

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