The Pond

The Pond depicts a real event that occurred in 1958 in Birmingham, Alabama. This beautifully illustrated book is written in rhyming verse.The story is told through the eyes of Billy, a five year old white child, living in the Deep South. Still six years away from the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Alabama and many parts of the United States were still segregated. Blacks and whites could not attend the same schools, churches, theaters, or restaurants. They could not drink from the same water fountains or use the same restrooms. This separation was driven by America’s slave history and racism. The Pond tells a joyous story that takes a dark turn. This book is a wonderful way to guide your child or students into conversations about race relations in the United States. The book includes a glossary and historical context information.