Grades
K - 7
Ruby Bridges Books to Include in Your Next Lesson Plan
At the age of six, Ruby Bridges was the first African American child to desegregate an all-white elementary school in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Ruby Bridges changed the course of history for herself and millions of others. In the midst of the civil rights movement, Bridges stood up against discrimination and racism by being the first Black student at William Frantz Elementary School. She was greeted by angry crowds and shunned by the majority of her peers, but nevertheless, she persisted.
Teach your class about Bridges’ story with The Story of Ruby Bridges (Grades PreK-3), which illustrates how she became a trailblazer and helped make education accessible to all. For a first-person perspective, give your students I Am Ruby Bridges (Grades 1-3) and Through My Eyes (Grades 5-7), written by Bridges herself. The books go into detail about November 14, 1960 — the day she was escorted by federal marshals to attend and integrate an all-white elementary school — and are filled with captivating illustrations and historic photographs.
Plus, check out this free activity guide for picture books by Ruby Bridges.
As part of your lesson plan, start a discussion about how Ruby Bridges’ bravery impacted education for generations to come. You can use these printables and this reading guide to spark conversation. You also can share this Ruby Bridges video with your students and reflect together.
Lessons about diversity and inclusion allow students to engage in meaningful conversations. Bridges has said that she likes to write children’s books because she believes the next generation holds the power to put an end to racism. “I felt like there was something I needed to do — speaking to kids and sharing my story with them and helping them understand racism has no place in the minds and hearts of children,” Bridges once said.
Shop titles by and about Ruby Bridges below to teach students important lessons about diversity, inclusion, and bravery. You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store.
$14.99$19.99
save to wishlistAcclaimed civil rights icon, Ruby Bridges, shares the touching tale of reuniting with the first-grade teacher who changed her life, Mrs. Henry.
$4.49$5.99
save to wishlistWith simple text and historical photographs, this easy reader explores an amazing moment in history and the courage of a young girl who stayed strong in the face of racism.
$2.99$3.99
save to wishlistRuby Bridges was born during the time of segregation in the South. In 1960, she made history when she attended an all-white school. Follow her story and learn why we still celebrate her courage today.
$14.24$18.99
save to wishlistDear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts is a compilation of letters from concerned young students about today's issues, including bullying, climate change, gun violence, and racism. Reading Ruby's intuitive and inspirational responses, young readers will embrace the courage to be brave, bold, and confident.
$17.25$25.00
save to wishlist
$14.24$18.99
save to wishlistA poetic reflection brimming with hope where Ruby Bridges tells her own story of that pivotal day in Civil Rights history.
$4.49$5.99
save to wishlistBoth the text and the watercolor paintings of this book capture Ruby's incredible strength, the love of her family, and the turmoil of America in the early 1960s.
$5.99$7.99
save to wishlistBoth the text and the watercolor paintings of this book capture Ruby's incredible strength, the love of her family, and the turmoil of America in the early 1960s.
$24.00$32.00
save to wishlistThe years spanning from 1955-1965 in US History were critical to the Civil Rights Movement. With stunning photographs throughout and rich back matter, this set will chronologically explain how this specific decade brought about change and how it still affects us as a society today. A sampling of the people and events include:
1955: Emmett Till, Rosa Parks, Montgomery bus boycott
1957: Little Rock 9, Civil Rights Act of 1957, MLK Jr meeting in Atlanta
1960: Greensboro 4, sit-ins, Ruby Bridges
1963: University of Alabama, March on Washington, Birmingham bombings
1965: Selma to Montgomery March, Voting Rights Act, Malcolm X
$5.96$7.95
save to wishlistRuby Bridges' poignant words, quotations from writers and from other adults who observed her, and dramatic photographs recreate an amazing story of innocence, courage, and forgiveness.
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