Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2002 Caldecott Medal Honor Book
2002 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Honor Book

This picture-book biography is an excellent and accessible introduction for young readers to learn about one of the world's most influential leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Doreen Rappaport weaves the immortal words of Dr. King into a captivating narrative to tell the story of his life. With stunning art by acclaimed illustrator Bryan Collier, Martin's Big Words is an unforgettable portrait of a man whose dream changed America — and the world — forever.

"An elegant, understated pictorial biography." Publishers Weekly

"With powerful art and pulsing words ("He walked with them and talked with them and sang with them and prayed with them"), this is a fine book to share and read aloud many times." Booklist

"Both author and illustrator preface the book with brief notes to explain specific aspects of King's life and death that inspired them in their collaboration. The result is a stunning, reverent tribute." School Library Journal

Doreen Rappaport has written numerous award-winning books for children, including: Freedom Ship and The School Is Not White (both illustrated by Curtis James); Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a Caldecott Honor Book and Coretta Scott King Honor Book; and John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon, also illustrated by Bryan Collier. She lives and writes in upstate New York.

Caldecott Honor Book and Coretta Scott King Book Illustrator Award winner Bryan Collier has created art for many award winning children's books, including his master achievements, Rosa, Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Freedom River, and John's Secret Dreams: The Life of John Lennon. Bryan lives in New York City with his wife and daughter.