Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased. Screenwise is a Bookshop.org affiliate and an Amazon Associate, so if you buy a book through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Bookshop.org purchases also support independent bookstores.
Screenwise Verdict
This is one of those books every kid should encounter at some point in elementary school, but it requires adult involvement. Robert Coles tells Ruby's story with respect and clarity, focusing on her strength rather than exploiting her trauma. The illustrations are beautiful and age-appropriate while still conveying the gravity of what she faced.
That said, this is heavy material. You're asking young children to grapple with the fact that adults can be cruel to kids because of skin color. That's a lot. But it's also real history that shaped our country, and Ruby's story is ultimately one of triumph and dignity.
The book has staying power—it was originally published in 1995 and reissued in 2010, with a 4.8 Amazon rating and continued use in classrooms. It's not a fun read, but it's an important one. Just don't expect your 5-year-old to process this alone, and be ready for some big questions afterward.
Age Fit
Best for ages 6-10 when read with an adult who can provide historical context and emotional support. The 4-5 year age recommendation from Scholastic assumes parental guidance—this isn't a bedtime story you hand to a preschooler solo. Older elementary kids can handle it more independently but will still benefit from discussion.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
88
Models extraordinary courage, faith, and perseverance in the face of hatred. Ruby's family provides warmth and support, and the narrative focuses on her inner strength rather than sensationalizing the violence around her. The tone is age-appropriate for young readers while honestly depicting a difficult historical moment.
Imaginative
62
This is a straightforward biographical narrative with powerful watercolor illustrations. While George Ford's artwork captures emotional depth and the historical setting, the book doesn't invite creative play or open-ended exploration—it's a linear true story meant to educate and inspire rather than spark imagination.
Safe
75
The book depicts angry mobs and racism directed at a six-year-old child, which can be emotionally heavy and potentially frightening for young readers. However, it avoids graphic violence or explicit language, focusing instead on Ruby's resilience. Parents should be prepared to discuss these difficult themes with children, making this safe with appropriate context but not something to hand a 5-year-old without preparation.
Enriching
94
Exceptional historical and social-emotional learning value. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning child psychiatrist Robert Coles, this introduces kids to the Civil Rights Movement through one child's experience, building empathy and understanding of courage, injustice, and social change. The story has endured for 60+ years because it makes history personal and accessible for young readers.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Makes Civil Rights history accessible and personal through one child's experience—kids understand what it feels like to be Ruby's age
Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning child psychiatrist Robert Coles, who actually knew Ruby and her family, giving it authenticity and psychological insight
George Ford's watercolor illustrations balance the warmth of Ruby's family with the harsh reality she faced, without being gratuitously scary
Teaches courage, resilience, and standing up for what's right in a way that resonates across generations
Short (32 pages) but packs an emotional and educational punch—perfect for classroom or family discussions about justice and equality
⚠
What to Watch For
Depicts angry white mobs screaming at a first-grader—this can be frightening and confusing for young kids without context
Requires follow-up conversation about racism, segregation, and why adults would treat a child this way
Some children may feel scared or sad after reading; be ready to process emotions and answer hard questions
Best as a read-aloud with an adult rather than independent reading for younger kids in the 4-6 range
Conversation Starters
"Ruby had to be really brave to go to school. What's something you've had to be brave about?"
"Why do you think those parents didn't want Ruby at that school? Does that make sense to you?"
"Ruby's family supported her even when things were scary. Who supports you when things are hard?"
"How do you think Ruby felt walking into school every day? What would you have done?"
"Things have changed a lot since 1960. What's different now? What do we still need to work on?"
