The First Step

Written by Susan E. Goodman · Illustrated by E. B. Lewis and E.B. Lewis

A young girl challenges school segregation, sparking a historic fight for equality.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 590 ratings

40 pages· 1,411 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1847 Boston, young Sarah Roberts is barred from a white-only school, igniting her family's historic legal battle against segregation. Though they lose, their fight inspires a movement for change. Discover the first steps toward desegregation in this powerful story of courage and unity, beautifully illustrated by E. B. Lewis.

From the publisher

2017 Orbis Pictus Honor Book

2017 Jane Addams Peace Association Honor Book

2017 Teachers’ Choice Pick, International Literacy Association

An NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book of 2017

In 1847, an African American girl named Sarah Roberts attended school in Boston. One day she was told she could never come back. She didn’t belong. The Otis School was for white children only.

The Roberts family fought this injustice and made history. Roberts v. City of Boston was the first case challenging our legal system to outlaw segregated schools. Sometimes even losing is a victory. They lost their case but Sarah’s cause was won when people, black and white, stood together and said, No more. Now, right now, it is time for change!

With gorgeous art from award-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis, The First Step is an inspiring look at the first lawsuit to demand desegregation–long before the American Civil Rights movement, even before the Civil War.

Backmatter includes: An integration timeline, bios on key people in the book, list of resources, and author’s note.