The Story of Ruby Bridges - (The Story of Biographies) by Arlisha Norwood Alston (Paperback)

About the Book

"Ruby Bridges was the first Black student to attend an all-white public school in the southern United States. Before she helped desegregate schools and change the course of history, Ruby had a simple childhood. She was a happy girl who helped take care of her younger siblings and loved to play outside. Her life changed when she was chosen to attend William Frantz Elementary, where she became a civil rights leader at a very young age. Explore how Ruby went from being a thoughtful girl growing up in Mississippi to a national leader in the fight for equality."--Publisher's description.

Book Synopsis

What if being brave meant going to school? Meet Ruby Bridges--the 6-year-old who made history with every step she took.

In The Story of Ruby Bridges, young readers discover how one courageous child helped break down racial barriers during the civil rights movement. Ruby Bridges was the first Black student to attend an all-white public school in the southern United States. Before she helped desegregate schools and change the course of history, she was a happy girl who helped take care of her younger siblings and loved to play outside. Her life changed when she was chosen to attend William Frantz Elementary, where she became a civil rights leader at a very young age.

What makes this biography a classroom and family favorite:

• Tailored for Young Readers - Designed for ages 6-9 with short, easy-to-read chapters that support independent reading and early comprehension.
• Built for Learning - Includes discussion questions, key vocabulary, and thoughtful prompts to foster critical thinking and empathy.
• Emotionally Resonant - Ruby's strength in the face of injustice helps spark meaningful conversations about fairness, inclusion, and bravery.
• Versatile and Engaging - Ideal for read-alouds, classroom libraries, homeschool units, and Black History Month lessons.

Part of the acclaimed The Story Of series, this isn't just a biography--it's a tool for raising brave, compassionate kids. If your child is ready to learn about history through the eyes of a child who lived it, The Story of Ruby Bridges is the perfect place to start.

Review Quotes

"The Story of Ruby Bridges not only informs us about how one brave little girl changed America's school system, it inspires." --Kate Hannigan, author of A Lady Has the Floor

"Arlisha Norwood Alston has already proven she is knowledgeable about Black history through her prior books, and continues to amaze us with this one. This book makes you see the story through Ruby's eyes. The Story of Ruby Bridges is a beautifully written and illustrated story that makes it easy for children to understand, and would be enjoyed by adults as well. You and your child(ren) will love this book!" --LaKendria April, kindergarten teacher

About the Author

ARLISHA NORWOOD ALSTON is a historian, researcher, and social justice advocate. She received her PhD in history from Howard University. She has published several children's books including Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids: 51 Inspiring People from Ancient Africa to Modern-Day U.S.A.