The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles and illustrated by George Ford published in 1995. From book summary: "For months, six-year-old Ruby Bridges must confront the hostility of segregationists when she becomes the first African-American girl to integrate Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans in 1960.
From front book flap: "Please, God, try to forgive those people. Because even if they say those bad things, They don't know what they're doing."
"As the first black child to attend an all-white elementary school, six-year-old Ruby Bridges finds herself in the center of a storm of hatred and prejudice. Each day, Ruby faces angry protesters as she is escorted to and from the first grade by federal marshals. With courage and dignity beyond her years, she becomes an important part of history and an example for all Americans. This is her extraordinary story. Pulitzer Prize-winner Robert Coles presents a moving portrayal that captures a young girl's amazing courage and faith. George Ford's powerful illustrations bring to life an important event in American history."
From front book flap: "Please, God, try to forgive those people. Because even if they say those bad things, They don't know what they're doing."
"As the first black child to attend an all-white elementary school, six-year-old Ruby Bridges finds herself in the center of a storm of hatred and prejudice. Each day, Ruby faces angry protesters as she is escorted to and from the first grade by federal marshals. With courage and dignity beyond her years, she becomes an important part of history and an example for all Americans. This is her extraordinary story. Pulitzer Prize-winner Robert Coles presents a moving portrayal that captures a young girl's amazing courage and faith. George Ford's powerful illustrations bring to life an important event in American history."