Mississippi Morning Book

Amidst the economic depression and the racial tension of the 1930s, a boy discovers a horrible secret of his father's involvement in the Ku Klux Klan.

Sylvia Firth - Children's Literature

Set in Mississippi during the 1930's, this is the story of a wonderful friendship between two boys, James William who is white and LeRoy who is black. James knows from belittling remarks made by his father that he would not condone his being friends with a black boy so he keeps it a secret. The boys further develop their comradeship by going fishing together. Leroy knows a lot about catching fish and freely shares this with James. One afternoon LeRoy tells his friend about the Klan and its hanging tree, James is faced with a whole new and very disturbing concept. Later while hiding in a tree, he comes face to face with an unmasked member of the Klan. His life is forever changed by this event. This eloquent and thought-provoking book is an excellent starting point for discussion of the history of race relations in America. The beautifully drawn illustrations set exactly the right tone for the book and greatly add to its powerful message. 2004, Eerdmans Books for Young People, Ages 9 up.