John Lewis’ story is truly amazing. He knew what he wanted and he went for it. The part where he was determined to get an education even at the cost of a possible chastising from his parents took gumption. It takes a lot to defy your parents at a young age. It also took heart for him to make the decisions he made to risk death for the cause. His eyes were opened during a trip to Buffalo. This stood out to me because I have always said that if our youth are to do better, they need to truly see the world...or at least other parts of the country. If John were not offered that small view of our society, he may have gone through with his initial plans for his future and done what he was told. “Stay out of trouble, don’t get in White people’s way.” 
There are portions of this book that solidify the fact that The Civil Rights Movement is still ongoing. Mayor West’s comment about him desegregating the airport is one of them. One success in righting an injustice is not enough. Even the “elders” at the time were trying to get them to slow down. Thurgood Marshall coming off of the Brown vs. Board of Education success, suggested that they take whatever deal was available to get out of jail if they are reprimanded. Dr. Stephen J. Wright, Fisk University President, and Dr. W. S. Davis, Tennessee State University President, made a deal on their behalf for partial segregation and they felt betrayed.
This story has so many layers and those that do not read it, will miss out on a great way to educate themselves and their children on this continued movement. Illustrations help to carry the story. There are some instances where the writing is garbled, but it is intentional in explaining what the narrator (Lewis) felt, heard and thought. I loved the fact that all characters are being portrayed in the story. Resorting back to my youth, The Civil Rights Movement was always taught as if it was JUST a Black issue or movement. This book mentions and shows White supporters and participants.
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