Curtis, C. P. (1995). The Watsons
go to Birmingham--1963. New York: Delacorte Press.
The Watson’s are a close knit family consisting of
mom, dad, Byron- a sixth grader, Kenny-a fourth grader, and Joetta-a Kindergartner,
that live in Flint, Michigan. The book is told through Kenny’s perspective. His
brother, Bryon, and Byron’s friends are bullies at school, and make fun of
Kenny. Byron is mischievous and sets objects on fire, gets into fights, and
changes his hair style without permission. After dying his hair, his parents
were fed up with his behavior, and decided it was best he live with his grandma
in Alabama. Grandma Sands is a tough, old lady who can straighten out Bryon.
Once in Birmingham, several scary, life threatening incidents happen with
Joetta and Kenny, where Bryon shows maturity, and is there to help and save them.
Through these events, Bryon’s parents realize he has matured and they all head
back to Michigan. This book gives reader’s a better understand of what life was
like for Americans back in 1963. The detailed description of the setting and various
situations that are taking place, allows the reader to feel as if they are part
of the book. The adventurous and humorous text keeps the readers engaged and
wanting to read more. The plot of the book allows readers to connect
autobiographically with the different characters, and reminds the reader of
their childhood, and the struggles of raising children. If a reader enjoys a humorous
book about a loving family then they will appreciate the book, “Crossover”, by
Kwame Alexander.
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