Back of the Bus

Philomel Books

Illustrated by Floyd Cooper

It seems like any other winter day in Montgomery, Alabama. Mama and child are riding where they're supposed to - way in the back of the bus. The boy passes the time by watching his marble roll up and down the aisle with the motion of the bus, until from way up front a big commotion breaks out. He can't see what's going on, but he can see the policeman arrive outside and he can see Mama's chin grow strong. "There you go, Rosa Parks," she says, "stirrin' up a nest of hornets. Tomorrow all this'll be forgot." But they both know differently.

With childlike words and powerful illustrations, Aaron Reynolds and Coretta Scott King medalist Floyd Cooper recount Rosa Parks' act of defiance through the eyes of a child - who will never forget.

“A sterling collaboration.”

— Publishers weekly, starred review

"Coupled with Cooper's rich paintings, this is a noteworthy reflection on the actions of a single individual in turning the tide of segregation."

— School library Journal

“The unique perspective of this young boy is one the book's’ greatest strengths. This book causes the reader to think of this important historic event from the eyes of those who not only witnessed it but those who found strength from it. Outstanding.”

— Children’s book and media review