My Uncle Martin's Words for America

In this inspirational story about Martin Luther King Jr.—told from the perspective of his niece Angela Farris Watkins—readers learn how King used his message of love and peace to effectively fight for African Americans’ civil rights.

Focusing on important words and phrases from his speeches, such as justice, freedom, and equality, Watkins uses King’s language to expose young readers to important events during the civil rights era. The simple yet striking text, along with a timeline and glossary, makes this book an accessible tool for helping a young audience learn about the importance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s message of nonviolence and his contributions to American history.

Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, is Martin Luther King Jr.’s niece. An associate professor of psychology at Spelman College, she lives in Atlanta. Eric Velasquez illustrated My Friend Maya Loves to Dance and received the Coretta Scott King–John Steptoe Award. He lives in Hartsdale, New York.