Written by Norman H. Finkelstein
The author writes of his grandfather, whom he never met, but through research and interviews with those who knew him and worked with him puts together an incredible story of a man who did so much for so many. Having experienced much financial success early on in his life as President of Sears, Roebuck and Company, Julius Rosenwald became aware of the deplorable conditions in which post-Civil War African American children were being educated. His friendship with Booker T. Washington inspired him to build more than 5,300 well-designed schools throughout the South. His foundation provided funds to the community to build the school but also insisted on the community raising enough funds to receive the school. This fostered an environment of cooperation and pride within the community as they embraced and improved the lives of their fellow African American neighbors.
Review by Kim Jones, West Kearns Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: 6-12
Schools of Hope: How Julius Rosenwald Helped Change African American Education
Written by Norman H. Finkelstein
Calkins Creek, an imprint of Highlights
80 pages
Release Date: April 1, 2014
