The Worst First Day: Bullied While Desegregating Central High - Softcover

Eckford, Elizabeth A; Stanley, Eurydice S; Stanley, Grace A

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0999766171 ISBN 13: 9780999766170

Publisher: Lamp Press LLC, 2018

Synopsis

**Winner of the 2018 Moonbeam Multicultural Non-Fiction Gold Children's Book Award** The Worst First Day: Bullied While Desegregating Central High introduces the next generation to Elizabeth Eckford, a modern-day heroine. As a 15-year-old in 1957, she faced an incensed mob of segregationists and soldiers alone while attempting to desegregate Central High in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was the first member of the Little Rock Nine to arrive at Central High. In her first autobiography, Eckford shares the backstory of the Little Rock civil rights crisis. Her historical insights are shared completely in verse, illuminated by captivating graphic artwork, Pulitzer Prize nominated photography, insightful essays and correspondence that will educate readers regarding the seemingly insurmountable odds the Little Rock Nine faced. Due to their dedication, the Supreme Court Brown v. Board of Education decision was implemented, diversifying American schools. This book provides critical lessons that parents and educators will want to share with students while enjoying themselves. The Worst First Day is an anti-bullying book that promotes resilience and encourages those being bullied. Eckford shares her harrowing experiences at Central High to embolden readers sharing the tenacity of the Little Rock Nine despite constant attacks. They remained tenacious and survived the ordeal with dignity despite indescribable fear. Eckford and the Little Rock Nine are true inspirations. Eckford shares how an unlikely friendship with two empathetic students saved her life. Their example encourages witnesses to be allies instead of bystanders. This incredible story of survival will inspire, educate and encourage every member of the family, especially middle school readers. Tomorrow's leaders will be encouraged to follow Elizabeth's example and #WalkPastHate.

About this title

From the Back Cover:

"Elizabeth's story is a compelling, modern-day Odyssey set during the civil rights era. This book plants seeds of courage in the readers' hearts, compelling them to build their resilience and follow Elizabeth's example when surrounded by chaos. Like me, the world remained in awe of the stoic girl who walked through the lion's den without stooping to the level of her attackers. Elizabeth was an example then, and remains one now."                                                 - Dr. Sybil Hampton Jordan, Central High 1959 - 1962

About the Author:

Elizabeth Eckford was the first member of the Little Rock Nine to arrive at Central High to desegregate the school. A photo of her attack was captured and shared internationally, sparking global outcry against racism and segregation. After Central, she attended Knox college before serving in the Women's Army Corps (WAC) for five years. Years later, Elizabeth returned to Little Rock to raise her sons, Erin and Calvin with family. She earned a BA in history from Central State University and served as a Probation Officer for County Circuit Court Judge Marion Humphrey for ten years, retiring in 2009. Elizabeth has received numerous awards for her sacrifice and courage as a member of the Little Rock Nine, to include the Congressional Gold Medal, America's highest civilian award. In 2018, she received an honorary doctorate from Knox College. She resides in her childhood home with her sister Anna and son Calvin, where she loves to garden. Dr. Eurydice Stanley is an International Motivational Speaker, Author, Veteran and "Mommypreneur." She served nearly 28-years in the Army, primarily conducting leadership and human relations training for military leaders. Her awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. "Dr. Eurydice" has written four books and holds numerous certifications. She founded Lamp Press LLC in memory of her beloved brothers to "shine the light" on underrepresented stories. Eurydice received a BS in Public Management from Florida A & M University where she pledged the Beta Alpha chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a Master's from University of Minnesota and a Ph.D. from Louisiana Baptist University. She is the proud mother of Grace and Christian, her muses, and a Distinguished Toastmaster. Follow her @DrEurydice. Grace Stanley is a gifted 15-year-old high school sophomore majoring in Biomedical Sciences. A budding historian, Grace advanced to National History Day state finals three times. In 2017, she received the Florida State National History Day World War II award from the Florida State Institute on World War II and the Human Experience. Grace has received numerous awards, to include the White House Presidential Award of Merit from President Obama. She enjoys reading, traveling, and is a member of several West Florida High School groups to include the International Thespian Society, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and the Drama Club. Follow her on Instagram at @GracedInspiration.

About this edition

• Publisher: Lamp Press LLC
• Publication date: 2018
• ISBN 10: 0999766171
• ISBN 13: 9780999766170
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 152