Freedom Riders : John Lewis and Jim Zwerg on the Front Lines of the Civil Rights Movement

By focusing on two participants in the historic Freedom Rides, one black and one white, this account of a landmark civil rights movement is at once personal and universal. Lewis, now a Congressman from Georgia, and Zwerg, a retired preacher and businessman, came from different worlds. Their paths crossed in Nashville, Tennessee, when, as young college students, they were part of the sit-in movement there. They became dedicated to demonstrating to the nation the injustice and brutality of segregation. Both risked their lives and became victims of violence. Readers will be able to relate to the experiences of each, making the history more lively and understandable. The story is clearly told in a chronological account that uses many photographs to illustrate the text. Back matter includes a time line, a roster of many of the riders, an index, and a resource guide. The guide lists some excellent books for young readers, music and videos, and places to visit both in person and online. This is an excellent nonfiction book for middle school where it can be used for black history units and for eighth grade social studies .