The Watsons Go to Birmingham- 1963 is a story about a fourth grade African-American boy, Kenny, and the adventures and mishaps of his family, the "Weird Watsons" as they are called. Kenny is very smart for his age and because of this, he is often made fun of by his classmates. However, his brother, Byron, happens to be the school bully, which is both good and bad for Kenny (usually the latter). Byron is always causing trouble, so his parents decide it is time for him to learn his lesson by taking him to his grandmother's house to be straightened out. The Watsons pack their car, Brown Bomber, and head to Birmingham, Alabama from Flint, Michigan. While in Birmingham, Kenny encounters an experience that leaves him tramautized for weeks even after returning back to Flint. Naturally, his parents are very worried about him, but do not know what to do. Kenny ends up being consoled by his older, bully brother, Byron.
The author shows the reader how children are affected by bullying through Kenny's emotions and thoughts. I think this story is a great example to show children as to why bullying is not right. It shows the raw emotions of hurt and pain. The story also discusses racial prejudices and crimes. I think this story would open up discussion about this topic and again, why this is wrong. Overall, I think The Watsons Go to Birmingham- 1963 would be a great book to have in my library as a teacher.
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