Written by Carlotta Walls LaNier and Liza Frazier Page
Adapted for young readers, this tells the story of Carlotta Wells. Chosen as the youngest of nine black students to attend Little Rock Central High School, she faced angry mobs, escorts from the 101st Airborne, and more to be the first black female to ever cross the school’s stage and receive a diploma. This book is a memoir of the traumatic, life changing events that happened leading up to her graduation.
This inspiring true account helps teach readers empathy and respect for others. It’s well-written, engaging, accessible, and draws the reader into Carlotta’s world. Offering a unique perspective, it presents for readers societal context for its intimate stories. Readers who like memoirs, nonfiction, history, or are in need of a biography for school will enjoy reading this book. This adaptation’s sweet spot will be middle school, but many high schoolers may enjoy it as well.
Reviewed by Kira Moody, Public Librarian and Olympus Jr High Community Member
Review shared in January 2023
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 7-12
A Mighty Long Way: My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School
Written by Carlotta Walls LaNier and Liza Frazier Page
Delacorte Press
294 pages
Release Date: January 17, 2023
ISBN: 9780593486764
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
