“The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963,” written by Christopher Paul Curtis, is a brilliant story about a lower-class African American family, residing in Michigan during the 1960’s. The author brings humor to an otherwise tragic tale of those who fell victim to protests during the Civil Rights Era during the mid-20th century.
The novel is a fast-moving and entertaining read. I was immediately drawn into the Watson family, and felt as if I were a guest in their home who was watching the story unfold. I do not have a favorite character in the story; instead I enjoyed the individuality of each character and the uniqueness they brought to the story.
The multicultural issues addressed in the novel are clear…segregation and discrimination of African Americans. In addition, the author touched upon economics within an African-American, suburban community; as the issue of welfare and government food was debated and discussed among the Watson children and their mother. Lastly, there is an inference, throughout the story that African-Americans living in the Midwest had more luxury and freedom than those who resided in the South. The author used subthemes, plots and characters to support this underlying theme, such as the two brothers from Kansas, the church bombing, and Mr. Watson poking fun of Mrs. Watson’s southern upbringing.
The universal themes represented in the novel are familial bonds, cultural identity and a sense of community belonging. Both young and adult readers would easily identify the culturally sensitive topics depicted in the story. Additionally, readers would enjoy the author’s sense of humor that is used throughout the book.
As a Social Studies teacher, I would incorporate this book into the 8th grade curriculum. During the month of May I will be introducing a unit on the Cold War/Civil Rights Era. The novel would be a perfect supplemental tool that can be used to “lighten-up” the heaviness of the unit.
“The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963” is a unique story and a valuable addition to all multicultural/historical studies!
I absolutley agree with you about how the humor used in this story helped to lighten up a very dark time in America's history. I too noticed the distinction made by the author about how life for the northern African Americans was better than those who lived in the south. Mr. & Mrs. Watson were going to teach that lesson to Byron. And he certainly learned that lesson - the hard way.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everything you said in your reflection. I just this story was a quick read with interesting characters and historical implications. I would recommend this novel to be used in a curriculum.
ReplyDeleteThis was a great book and I loved reading it because it really helped to introduce the characters and had the readers fall in love with the whole family. By the end of the novel, I kept waioting for something bad to happen. However, I was shocked with the blowing up of the church. I really think that this could be a great book to use as a jumping off point for a discussion on the Civil Rights movement.
ReplyDeleteI too thought that this novel was an easy read. I would use it as an introduction to Civil Rights at a younger age. I agree that the author tries to bring a sense of humor to a subject that is very sensitive. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great book for Social Studies/History units! I loved this book it was witty, fun and quick! It can be used for character education and teaching differences, acceptance and tolerance. This was a family you could only fall in love with!
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