SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: 

“Dawson’s text makes a stark, complex topic accessible and comprehensible to younger readers.”

VERDICT A compelling picture book that introduces the history of segregation and its impact in the U. S. to young readers.–Hilary Tufo, Columbus ­Metropolitan Lib., Reynoldsburg, OH

From a presentation on OPENING THE ROAD, students learn:

-the untold story of Victor Hugo Green’s contribution to history, making it a great foray into lessons on equity and social justice for young learners

-how to make historical connections from the past text to today

-the vocabulary needed to understand complex concepts in the long road toward seeking social justice

-to use skills in cause and effect connecting historical events and their impact on Black Americans.

-how research is used to write fiction and nonfiction stories

WHAT I DO AT SCHOOL VISITS:

-Discuss the importance of stories about unsung heroes like Victor Hugo Green.

-Introduce concepts and vocabulary needed to understand the story.

-Read OPENING THE ROAD.

-Discuss research methods, obstacles, and my writing process.

-Share an activity to make a real life connection to the story.

-Leave time for Q&A

ADDITONAL CONTENT:

Educational Guide with standards-aligned  Educational Activity Guide. 

Flipgrid Discovery Library: OPENING THE ROAD has topics for students to explore in the Discovery Library. Parents and educators can access videos, and mini lessons specific to the topics, content and vocabulary used in the book. Readers can watch and respond to the videos with their own recordings and writings! For privacy, teachers can copy this module into their own classroom Flipgrid sites. 

ENDORSEMENTS:

“This intricately illustrated and inspiring book reveals the courageous spirit of Victor Hugo Green and reminds us that within us all lies the power to change the world.” —Oge Mora, author and illustrator of Thank You, Omu; Saturday; and The Oldest Student

“Opening the Road is a story of resilience in the Black American tradition of ‘making a way out of no way’–that is, challenging the limits of racism through ingenuity, community, and hope.” —Veronica Miller Jamison, illustrator of A Computer Called Katherine

“In Opening the Road, author Keila Dawson opens children’s eyes to the dangers of segregation and the power of the human spirit to resist and find detours around injustice.” –Nancy Churnin, award-winning author of Manjhi Moves a Mountain and The William Hoy Story

“This road trip into history detailing Victor Green’s efforts to bypass racial discrimination when traveling is a welcome companion to the stories of Rosa Parks and Elizabeth Jennings.” –Beth Anderson, author of Lizzie Demands a Seat and An Inconvenient Alphabet