Author Profile
Ruby Bridges
4 Books
Ruby Bridges is an American civil rights icon who made history in 1960 as the first African American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South. She has authored several deeply impactful children's books and memoirs, including "Through My Eyes" and "I Am Ruby Bridges," which detail her courageous childhood experiences. Her literary catalog serves to educate new generations about the civil rights movement and the enduring importance of equality, empathy, and social justice.
Ruby Bridges was six years old when she walked into a New Orleans school and helped change history. Ruby Bridges Goes to School tells her true story with simple words and real historical photographs, making an important moment in the Civil Rights Movement easier for young readers to understand.
You will learn how Ruby became the first Black child to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans. Even when people were angry and unfair, Ruby kept going.
Clear, direct, and inspiring, this early reader introduces children to courage, school integration, and the true story of a young girl whose bravery still matters today.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
Ruby Bridges was small enough to be in first grade, but the walk she took to school became part of history. In I Am Ruby Bridges, Ruby tells her story from the point of view of her six-year-old self, remembering the day she became the first Black child to integrate William Frantz Elementary in Louisiana.
This poetic picture book helps you see a major Civil Rights Movement moment through a child’s eyes. Ruby’s voice is gentle and brave, and Nikkolas Smith’s powerful illustrations add feeling and depth to each page.
For young readers learning about fairness, courage, and history, this is a clear and moving introduction to Ruby Bridges and the path she helped open for others.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
Children across America have questions, worries, and hopes. In Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts, they write to Ruby Bridges about things that matter to them, including bullying, racism, climate change, and violence. Ruby answers with the care and courage of someone who knows what it means to stand up when something is unfair.
This illustrated nonfiction book brings together children’s honest letters and Ruby’s thoughtful replies. Her words help young readers feel heard while showing that bravery can begin with speaking up, listening closely, and caring about others.
Warm, serious, and hopeful, this book invites you to think about your own voice and the kind of change children can help make.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
When Ruby Bridges was in first grade, one teacher helped her feel safe and welcome in a school where many people did not want her to be. That teacher was Mrs. Henry, and A Talk with My Teacher tells the story of Ruby’s bond with the teacher who changed her life.
Young readers meet Ruby during her historic year at William Frantz Elementary and see how kindness in a classroom can make a lasting difference. When Ruby returns for second grade, she discovers that Mrs. Henry is no longer her teacher, and she wonders if she will ever see her again.
Tender and thoughtful, this picture book celebrates brave students, caring teachers, and the powerful memories that stay with us.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
