ROLLIN’ ON DOWN THE LINE: Lady Bird Johnson’s 1964 Whistle-Stop Tour for Civil Rights is a stunning history book. It covers Lady Bird’s fifty stops in eight Southern states. This fascinating story as to how Lady Bird got the word out about The Civil Rights Act is written with interesting details by Helen Kampion and Renee’ Critcher Lyons. It is illustrated with lively color, action and determination by Erin McGuire. The opening double page spread shows the signing of this important document on July 2,1964 in the White House East Room.
On October 6, 1964, people gathered at the train station in Alexandria, Virginia to give the Lady Bird Special a proper sendoff. Bands played and people cheered. Lady Bird spoke to the crowd. “I wanted to make this trip because …I am proud that I am part of the South. I love the South…” The illustration of the Lady Bird Special taking off amid much cheering is beautifully drawn.
Lady Bird’s first speech took place at Fredericksburg, Virginia. As the beautiful illustration shows she was able to meet the challenge put forth by difficult crowds and eventually win many of them over with her fine thinking and her obvious love for the South.
Interesting back materials include Whistle- Stop Facts and the Authors’ Notes regarding Lady Bird Johnson.
ROLLIN’ ON DOWN THE LINE: Lady Bird Johnson’s 1964 Whistle- Stop Tour for Civil Rights is perfect for readers 6-10 years of age.
(Sleeping Bear Press) 2024.
The Children’s Bookshelf is a production of WCMU. Links to the podcast and the Activity Questions can be found at Children’s Bookshelf dot org.
Activity Questions for Rollin’ On Down The Line
Look at the double page spread of the food that can be found in the dining rooms on the train. Older children please find black-eyed peas, grits, and hush puppies. Younger children please find Jello, pumpkin pie, deviled eggs and roast beef. If you were planning things to eat on a train, what would you include? Draw a picture of your menu.
