Review of My Special Day in Jasper,Texas USA

[Damian Keyes]

[Following is a volunteer review of "My Special Day in Jasper,Texas USA" by Jermaine Kenyatta.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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My Special Day in Jasper, Texas USA details the real-life childhood story of Martha Adams in 1968 as she becomes the first and only black student – at that time - to integrate into an all-white elementary school. Jermaine Kenyatta is the author of this children’s book that explores Martha’s thoughts and feelings as an 11-year-old African American who dealt with hate and rejection from the society around her.

During a time when segregation was prevalent throughout the United States and the Civil Rights Movement was gaining notoriety, this book is a great source of hope that change can happen Jermaine showcased in this book how Martha had to deal with hate from the white students and parents at her school, then she goes back to her neighborhood where she was treated the same. The saving grace of this story was Martha’s mother and her teacher, Mrs. Gannon. They are her support system through this life-changing moment in her life.

I loved the relationship between Martha and her teacher. Mrs. Gannon acted like a mother figure to her at school and sheltered her from being singled out or from feeling unloved. Teachers can influence the lives of their students in a major way, and this is shown years later in Martha’s life when she becomes a teacher.

I think this book is best suited for students in the age range from 8 to 10 who can comprehend the discussion of race. This is a chapter book, so they also need to be at a suitable reading level. Also, the author includes a couple of colorful paintings, so that’s a nice visual to go along with the reading.

This short book of 32 pages was quick to read and held my attention throughout. I saw only a couple of spelling and grammar errors, but they did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Nevertheless, I’m going to say that this book is professionally edited. My main takeaway from this book is how important unconditional love from your community is and the power of hope goes a long way in the face of adversity. I love the history lesson about Jasper, Texas, and what the community had to go through since advancements with race in the United States. There was nothing I disliked about this book. I’m going to give this book 4 out of 4 stars.

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My Special Day in Jasper,Texas USA
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