SIT-IN: HOW FOUR FRIENDS STOOD UP BY SITTING DOWN written by Andrea Davis Pinkney and illustrated by Brian Pinkney

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Pinkney, Andrea Davis. Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down. Ill. by Brian Pinkney. New York: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2010. ISBN 0316070165

PLOT SUMMARY

This picture book tells the true story of four African American college students in Greensboro, North Carolina who sat down at a Woolworth’s lunch counter for whites only. They simply wanted “A doughnut and coffee, with cream on the side.” Although they faced difficulty, this was a key moment in the effort for racial equality that led to more sit-ins, and eventually the integration they had hoped for.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story portrays how David, Joseph, Franklin, and Ezell are bravely inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to peacefully protest for equality by sitting in at an all-white lunch counter. Intermixed with Dr. King’s quotes, poetic language, and metaphors that follow a cooking theme, the message given in this story is powerful, yet historically factual. This type of story helps bring the reality of the Civil Rights Movement to life by also making it easier to understand, especially for younger learners. The story of these young men also display how to stand up for what is right, although they stand up by sitting down in this case. This book has the potential to inspire others to have the courage to face challenges in order to make a positive difference, even at a young age. The ten steps given as the recipe for integration is especially impactful.

The illustrations and words go hand-in-hand to make this story even more compelling. An example of a metaphor that is enhanced through illustrations is shown in the description of the four men: “…they were treated like the hole in a donut: invisible.” The use of bright, colorful watercolor imagery and double page spreads successfully displays each of the scenes in purposeful ways. In particular, the vast scene of twists and turns of what the sit-in at the lunch counter became over time shows how their efforts to be treated fairly were far from simple. Everything about this book, including the expressive illustrations, can bring about great discussions. Since this story is woven into a broader context of events during this time, it could also be paired with other books and resources on the Civil Rights Movement.

The pages following the story provide helpful resources for readers. First, a "Civil Rights Timeline" is provided to show readers the many events taking place during this time of change in addition to sit-ins.  “A Final Helping” gives more information on the struggles of sit-ins. For further enjoyment, the author includes a list of books and websites for readers to explore in connection with the Civil Rights Movement.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Jane Addams Honor Book

From Booklist: “Even young children will grasp the powerful, elemental, and historic story of those who stood up to oppressive authority and changed the world.”

CONNECTIONS

Gather other Andrea Davis Pinkney books to read such as:

Rhythm Ride: A Road Trip Through the Motown Sound. ISBN 1596439734

Bird in a Box. ISBN 0316074020

Gather other Jane Addams Honor Books to read such as:

Hopkinson, Deborah. Shutting Out the Sky: Life in the Tenements of New York, 1880-1924. ISBN 0439375908

Grifalconi, Ann and Nelson, Kadir. The Village That Vanished. ISBN 0803726236

Possible activities:

Make a recipe for peace in today’s world inspired by Dr. King’s quotes.

Using the timeline provided, research other specific events that led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964.