10 Books and Movies that Celebrate MLK Jr.'s Life

Many schools, banks, government offices and businesses will close Monday to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While many will spend the day catching up on lost sleep and forgotten chores, it is important to note the significance of this national holiday and the legacy of the man it honors.

Refresh your memory of King's life and his fight for equality among all races. Read about the man who led civil rights marches and gave memorable speeches across the country during the '50s and '60s to inspire Americans of all races to unite behind the cause of civil rights.

To learn more about the life of King and how his dream lives on today, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library offers a wide selection of books and movies to consider. Here are 10:

1. The Words of Martin Luther King, Jr. Selected by Coretta Scott King. A volume of selections from King's speeches and writings.
2. King (DVD). In this full-length documentary, Tom Brokaw takes viewers into the remarkable life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
3. Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport. This biography includes illustrations and texts about King by both the author and the civil rights visionary himself. 
4. My Uncle Martin's Big Heart by Angela Farris Watkins. A young girl introduces readers to her uncle, King, describing his personality and family moments they have shared.     
5. Free At Last! by Angela Bull. A biography of King that takes readers through his childhood, leadership, powerful speeches, assassination and greatest influences. 
6. Martin Luther King, Jr.: A Life by Marshall Frady. This book tells the history of the civil rights movement with King’s rise to fame and influence.
7. I May Not Get There With You: The True Martin Luther King, Jr. by Michael Eric Dyson. Explores the contradictions and superficial images of King and tells the story of his life that makes him a man for modern times.
8. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Amy Pastan. Recounts the story of King, his life and accomplishments, and his impact on American history and culture.    
9. Martin Luther King Jr.: Man of Peace by Pat McKissack. Simple text and illustrations describe the life and accomplishments of the civil rights pioneer.    
10. Martin Luther King Jr. by Robert E. Jakoubek. Examines the life of the Baptist minister and civil rights leader who helped American blacks win many battles for equal rights.