About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that the rules of the world don't always apply to everyone equally, or when they are struggling to understand why fairness is sometimes hard to achieve. It is a powerful tool for explaining the history of segregation and the Civil Rights Act through the lens of a relatable, everyday activity: going to the pool with a best friend. Through the story of Joe and John Henry, children will explore themes of loyalty, systemic injustice, and the bittersweet reality that laws can change faster than people's hearts. While the ending is poignant rather than perfectly happy, it offers a deeply honest foundation for discussing empathy and the importance of standing by your friends when things get tough. It is ideally suited for children in the elementary years who are ready for a gentle but truthful look at American history.
