This is a very moving story made all the more powerful by the illustrations. Those who think that "comic" style books have no substance and no place in education should take a look at this book. The message is graphically reinforced by the pictures. The anger, the sadness, the outrage and the joy are so much more immediate on the faces of the characters. 
 This is a wonderful story of John Lewis' journey to self awareness and finding his purpose in life. Although racism still exists, the extreme unfairness and injustice that was common before the civil rights movement does not. My kids are shocked when they hear about the deplorable treatment that African Americans endured in the not too distant past. They take interracial marriage, integrated schools and casual friendships among kids of all races for granted. 
 Book one of this effective trilogy introduces us to the Jim Crow south and to the acceptance of the unfathomable treatment of an entire race. It also introduces a cast of heroic characters who had the guts to stand up for themselves and their brothers and sisters. Lewis tells his story in an honest and straightforward way that will appeal to and hopefully touch many readers.