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TITLE: THE GREAT MIGRATION
AUTHOR: JACOB LAWRENCE
ILLUSTRATOR: JACOB LAWRENCE

DESCRIPTION: A vivid personal memoir of the story behind the greatest movement of people within the history of our nation.

WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK: I’ve read a number of accounts of the Great Migration but never encountered a more powerful rendition than the words and pictures of renowned artist Jacob Lawrence. His experience as a member of one of the many African American families who left the south for greater opportunities in the northern United States is compelling and instructive. Historical details are made poignant and relevant through his application of pictorial descriptions to enrich and define his text. Even younger ages can grasp some deeper understanding of the hard times of the south that moved millions to leave all they knew for a chance at a better life in a new land. Not only does Lawrence acquaint us with the stories of departure but readily details the conditions and reception faced by the newcomers upon their arrival in the urban centers of the North. Things were not always as expected but the benefits of greater safety and opportunities for education and better jobs often justified the sacrifice. I consider this required reading for anyone who seeks to understand many of the reasons behind the issues we currently face in our cities and towns regarding people on the move in search of a better life. The migration continues and hopefully we will all play a part in the welcoming and transition of each new generation in gratitude for the courage and resolve of our ancestors who dared to dream and moved that dream to action!

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