White Socks Only

Written by Evelyn Coleman · Illustrated by Tyrone Geter

Part of the Albert Whitman Prairie Paperback series

A girl defies segregation by drinking from a 'Whites Only' fountain, sparking unexpected consequences.

4.4 Goodreads · 1,125 ratings

32 pages· 1,498 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud· AD560L

$7.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In the segregated South, a young girl in Mississippi believes her white socks allow her to drink from a 'Whites Only' fountain. Her innocent defiance on a scorching day ignites a powerful stand against hatred. As she steps up to the fountain, the air crackles with the potential for change. Will her bravery and a touch of magic overcome the barriers of prejudice? This evocative tale captures the heat and spirit of a pivotal moment, where courage and innocence challenge the status quo.

From the publisher

1996 Notable Book for Children, Smithsonian Magazine Pick of the Lists, American BooksellerIn the segregated south, a young girl thinks that she can drink from a fountain marked “Whites Only” because she is wearing her white socks.When Grandma was a little girl in Mississippi, she sneaked into town one day. It was a hot day–the kind of hot where a firecracker might light up by itself. But when this little girl saw the “Whites Only” sign on the water fountain, she had no idea what she would spark when she took off her shoes and–wearing her clean white socks–stepped up to drink. Bravery, defiance, and a touch of magic win out over hatred in this acclaimed story by Elevelyn Coleman. Tyrone Geter’s paintings richly evoke its heat, mood, and legendary spirit.

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