Module 6: Goin’ Someplace Special & Ron’s Big Mission

Goin’ Someplace Specia by Patricia McKissack

Summary:  ‘Tricia Ann allows viewers to be first hand spectators of the time of segregation.  ‘Tricia Ann takes a ride to the library all along being a victim of injustice until she finally arrives to a place where nothing matters.

Citation: McKissack, P. (2008). Goin’ someplace special. New York: Aladdin.

Impressions:  I was sad to know about the discriminations a little girl suffered although she was a child.  The ending was especially special because she arrives at the library.

Reviews:  School Library Journal

Gr 3-5-'Tricia Ann's first solo trip out of her neighborhood reveals the segregation of 1950s' Nashville and the pride a young African-American girl takes in her heritage and her sense of self-worth. In an eye-opening journey, McKissack takes the child through an experience based upon her own personal history and the multiple indignities of the period. She experiences a city bus ride and segregated parks, restaurants, hotels, and theaters and travels toward "Someplace Special." In the end, readers see that 'Tricia Ann's destination is the integrated public library, a haven for all in a historical era of courage and change. Dialogue illustrates her confidence and intelligence as she bravely searches for truth in a city of Jim Crow signs. Pinkney re-creates the city in detailed pencil-and-watercolor art angled over full-page spreads, highlighting the young girl with vibrant color in each illustration. A thought-provoking story for group sharing and independent readers.

Elam, M. (2001). Goin’ Someplace Special [Review of the book Goin’ Someplace Special, by Patricia McKissack]. School Library Journal.

Use in Library Setting:  This is a great book to read aloud during Black History Month.

Ron’s Big Mission by Rose Blue & Corinne Naden

Summary:  This story is about Ron McNair (astronaunt) and how he challenges the rules during times of segregation.  Ron wants a library card but is not allowed because of the laws. Using peaceful ways, Ron manages to get a library card.

Citation: Blue, R., Naden, C.  (2009). Ron’s big mission. New York: The Penguin Group.

Impressions:  This story is very inspiring.  Although it was against the law to acquire a library card, Ron perceives and obtains one. 

Reviews:  Booklist

In this story based on an incident from the life of astronaut Ron McNair, nine-year-old Ron walks into his local public library with a mission—to secure a library card for himself so that he can take books home to read. Because it’s 1959 and segregation laws prohibit African Americans from borrowing books, Ron is at first declined. The police arrive, but Ron refuses to be deterred; finally the head librarian agrees to bend the rules—Ron is her best patron, after all—and a very happy Ron leaves, books in hand. Based on interviews with Ron’s mother and a South Carolinian librarian, the story emphasizes McNair’s focus and determination to succeed, even if it means pointing out injustices along the way. Vibrant illustrations portray a cozy small town where rules are obeyed, mostly without thinking. Tate’s figures feature oversized heads with very expressive faces that vividly convey well-meant kindness and the frustrations of injustice. Appended with a note on McNair’s adult life, this will make a good choice for reading aloud and discussing.

Weisman, K. (2009). Ron’s big mission [Review of the book Ron’s big mission, by Rose Blue Corinne Naden]. Booklist.

Use in Library Setting:  This book would also make a great addition to lessons on Black History Month.