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Books About Ruby Bridges: Teaching Kids the Power of Courage


Ruby Bridges' story of courage and resilience continues to inspire young readers. This collection of children's books highlights her historic walk to integrate an all-white school and the powerful lessons of bravery and equality she taught the world. Celebrated every November, Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day is a time to honor her legacy. Ruby Bridges herself has authored several books, aiming to inspire children with her journey and the importance of standing up for what's right.


For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book.

Ruby Bridges tells her story as never before and shares the events of the momentous day in 1960 when Ruby became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Franz Elementary as a six year old little girl -- a personal and intimate look through a child's lens at a landmark moment in our Civil Rights history.


My work will be precious.

I will bridge the "gap" between Black & white...

...and hopefully all people!


I suppose some things in life are just meant to be. When Ruby Bridges was six years old, she became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Frantz Elementary in Louisiana. Based on the pivotal events that happened in 1960 and told from her point of view, this is a poetic reflection on her experience that changed the face of history and the trajectory of the Civil Rights movement.


I Am Ruby Bridges offers hope and confidence to all children. It is the perfect learning tool for schools and libraries to teach the story of Ruby Bridges and introduce this landmark story to young readers in a powerful new way. This story of innocence and courage is brought to life by NAACP-nominated artist, Nikkolas Smith through stunning and breath-taking illustrations. Embracing the meaning of her name, Bridges reflects with poignancy and heart on the way one brave little girl stood proud to help build a bridge between all people and pave the path for future generations.



National civil rights activist and icon Ruby Bridges responds to letters from thoughtful and concerned young students from across America.


"I've heard their hearts and now share those hearts with you. These pages truly speak to the power of children!" -- Ruby Bridges


Ruby Bridges was the first Black child to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans. She established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to promote tolerance and to create change through education. She traveled across the US, listening to the inspiring voices of young children.


Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts is a compilation of letters from concerned young students about today's issues, including bullying, climate change, gun violence, and racism. Reading Ruby's intuitive and inspirational responses, young readers will embrace the courage to be brave, bold, and confident. The students' letters and Ruby's responses are powerfully illustrated with dynamic and thought-provoking artwork by John Jay Cabuay.



Acclaimed civil rights icon, Ruby Bridges, shares the touching tale of reuniting with the first-grade teacher who changed her life, Mrs. Henry.


Once again, you have shown me that you never get too old to learn. Teaching really is the noblest of professions.


When Ruby Bridges was only six years old, she made history by being the first Black child to integrate William Frantz Elementary School. She became best friends with her teacher, Mrs. Henry. Excited to come back for her second year, Ruby is soon devastated to learn that Mrs. Henry isn't her second-grade teacher. Where did Mrs. Henry go? Can Ruby ever reconnect with her favorite teacher?


A love letter to teachers who hold the power to change lives, Ruby Bridges: A Talk with My Teacher illuminates the lasting impact that the best of teachers can have on the lives of their students. Trudy Tran's emotive rendering of Ruby Bridges from childhood to adulthood brings new life to this heartwarming story of a reunion between two long lost best friends.



Discover the life of Ruby Bridges--a story about bravery and breaking down barriers for kids ages 6 to 9


Ruby Bridges was the first Black student to attend an all-white public school in the southern United States. Before she helped desegregate schools and change the course of history, she was a happy girl who helped take care of her younger siblings and loved to play outside. Her life changed when she was chosen to attend William Frantz Elementary, where she became a civil rights leader at a very young age. Explore how Ruby went from being a thoughtful girl growing up in Mississippi to a national leader in the fight for equality.



Ruby Bridges' story reminds us all of the importance of courage and standing up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. Sharing her story with children can inspire them to make a difference in the world. Explore more books that celebrate strong, brave role models in our bookshop for year-round inspiration.


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