The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963: 25th Anniversary Edition

Author Christopher Paul Curtis

Grades 6-8 Ages 8-12

During one of the most important times in the civil rights movement, one unforgettable family goes on a road trip in this Newbery and Coretta Scott King Honoree, from author Christopher Paul Curtis, recipient of the Coretta Scott King–Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement. This special edition makes a perfect gift and includes bonus content.

When the Watson family—ten-year-old Kenny, Momma, Dad, little sister Joetta, and brother Byron—sets out on a trip south to visit Grandma in Birmingham, Alabama, they don’t realize that they’re heading toward one of the darkest moments in America’s history. The Watsons’ journey reminds us that even in the hardest times, laughter and family can help us get through anything.
 
"A modern classic." —NPR

“Marvelous . . . both comic and deeply moving.” —The New York Times

"One of the best novels EVER." —Jacqueline Woodson, Newbery Honor and National Book Award–winning author of Brown Girl Dreaming
 
Bonus Content
• New foreword and afterword from the author
• Map of the Watsons’ journey
• Original manuscript pages and letter from the Newbery committee
• Personal essays celebrating the book’s legacy by award-winning authors Jacqueline Woodson,
Varian Johnson, and Kate DiCamillo

Available Formats

Trade Paperback 9780593306499
Trade Paperback 9780385382946
Trade Paperback 9780440414124
Paperback 9780440228004
Hardcover 9780385321754
eBook 9780385729857
Unabridged Audiobook Download 9780553750577

Awards

Arkansas Charlie May Simon Master List - WINNER 1997

Illinois Rebecca Caudill Young Readers Award - NOMINEE 1998

Maine Student Book Master List - WINNER 1996

Massachusetts Children's Book Master List - WINNER 1999

New Mexico Land of Enchantment Book Award - WINNER 2000

California Young Reader Medal - WINNER 1998

ALA Notable Children's Book - WINNER 1996

ALA Best Books for Young Adults - WINNER 1996

Coretta Scott King Author Honor - WINNER 1996

Newbery Honor Book - WINNER 1996

Featured In

Christopher Paul Curtis

Creator Spotlight
Random House Children's Books Teachers and Librarians