Mississippi Morning

The seeds of racism planted by adults impact children in ways that in time confront us, unnerve us, and ultimately challenge us to embrace the human family. This focus is candidly portrayed in Ruth Vander Zee's historical fiction work, MISSISSIPPI MORNING. Masterfully illustrated by Floyd Cooper, this children's book takes a glimpse at life in a Mississippi town as seen through the eyes of James William, a white youngster. The story takes place during 1933, a time when Jim Crow laws and "that's-just-the-way-it-is between-blacks-and whites" attitudes prevailed. James William is friends with Leroy, a black child. While fishing together on a comfy-cozy summer afternoon, James William is unnerved by his fishing buddy's unwillingness to sit next to what seems to be an ordinary tree. "That's the hanging tree," Leroy confides, telling James William about the Ku Klux Klan and harsh, often untold realities faced by blacks. Convinced that race hatred does not exist in his hometown, James William's life takes a turn when he comes face to face with a Klan member in a place least expected. This engaging work accompanied by Cooper's thought-provoking illustrations can be used to spark healthy discussion regarding race relations. A springboard for understanding and healing, MISSISSIPPI MORNING is a must-have item for home, school, and families across cultures!