The Watsons go to Birmingham- 1963

Curtis, C. P. (1995). The Watsons go to Birmingham--1963. New York: Delacorte Press.

Set in the 1960s, this historical fiction novel focuses on the Watsons family and their everyday family difficulties along with the challenges during the Civil Rights Movement. Kenny Watson is the middle child of this African American family who resides in Flint, Michigan. Byron is Kenny’s older brother who sometimes bullies him with unkind words and hurtful punches. Joetta is the youngest child, and she is a sweet girl who will do anything to prevent harm to her brothers. Through Kenny’s perspective we learn that Byron is a problem child and a school bully who is always getting in some type of trouble. When the family has had enough of Byron’s nonsense, they decide to travel to Birmingham, Alabama to visit Grandma Sands. The Watsons believe Byron will straighten up by spending a summer or perhaps a school year with her. During this trip, the Watsons experience incidents in which they learn to come closer as a family. When Kenny almost drowns we notice Byron’s heroic and loving act of saving his brother. In addition, Curtis, the author, plays tribute to the real and unforgettable burning of the Sixteenth Avenue Baptist Church explosion where Joetta is believed to be. This incident causes the family to become closer despite their difficulties and problems. Their love is evident in their kind words and actions portrayed in each of their characters.

Lesson Links:
http://www.walden.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/watsons_ed_resource_v9_sec2_WebRes_Units1-7.pdf

http://www.webenglishteacher.com/watsons-go-to-birmingham-1963-lesson-plans.html