­Troubled Waters: A River’s Journey Toward ­Justice

PreS-Gr 3–The Alabama River, spanning 318 miles from Montgomery to Mobile, has witnessed numerous historic events. The river has been there longer than most, before the English settlers, before Africans were ­enslaved in chains. In 1802, a group of Cherokee were forced out of the area along the Trail of Tears, and the Alabama River was there, watered by their tears. From the Black Belt to the Civil War to the fight for civil rights, the Alabama River has seen it all. A group of voting rights demonstrators crossed the Bridge over the Alabama in a horrific day that became known as “Bloody Sunday.” Far from being a deterrent, this tragic event inspired more marches across the river in pursuit of equal voting rights for Black ­Americans. In ­Weatherford’s ­exceptional account of the ­historic events, the river becomes a character itself, and through its eyes, readers are able to see all the disheartening and powerful moments that transpired nearby. Collier expertly uses traditional media like collage, acrylic, and watercolor to create emotional and dynamic scenes, featuring individuals of various skin tones and body types. ­Weatherford effortlessly transports readers through each era of history. Set apart in a handwritinglike font are lyrics from ­various river-themed traditional spirituals, such as “Down by the Riverside” and “Wade in the Water.” ­Building this connection between the spirituals and the Alabama River enables readers to see the ­significance of the river across time. ­