As Fast As Words Could Fly by Pamela M. Tuck, illustrated by Eric Velazquez. PICTURE BOOK/NON-FICTION. Lee & Low Books, 2013. $11. 9781620148594
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Growing up during the Civil Rights Movement meant that fourteen-year-old Mason had to make uncomfortable, yet brave, decisions over and over. He decided to write letters of advocacy for his father’s civil rights group and he decided to attend a previously all white high school. Unique to this story is that Mason also decided to learn and improve his typewriting skills, ultimately winning a contest against a group of all white and upper-class students.
I was disappointed to learn that this story is only loosely based on a true story. The context of the civil rights movement, however, was accurate and interesting. Given that it isn’t strictly a true account, I am surprised the author picked typewriting as the centerpiece. Typewriting isn’t exactly a riveting topic.
Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher
Hello, I am the author of this book and I want to thank you for your interest. This book is categorized as Historical Fiction, but it is not loosely based on a true story. This story IS my dad's story. Many of the events in the book actually happened to my dad. Typing was his strength during this time and that is the reason it was the central focal point in the story. If you'd like to learn more about his story, please feel free to visit my website, www.pamelamtuck.com, where there is a link to my publisher's (Lee and Low Books) website highlighting an interview with my dad. It's entitled, Voices of the Civil Rights Movement. I hope this lessens the disappointment to know that this story is closer to being nonfiction than not. Best, Pamela Tuck
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