In the early 1960s, Martin Luther King Jr., (MLK) symbolized hope, fortitude, and change in a country that was caught in discriminatory social attitudes towards African-Americans. He was a leader and spokesperson for the Civil Rights Movement. Laid slain by assassination in 1968, MLK was only able to realize part of his potential. Martin Luther King Jr. is the kind of hero whose story inspires Americans of all ages. Subsequently, authors have used his life as the subject for many works such as children's books, adult general interest biography, essay collections, and academic texts. There is much to appreciate about the life of Martin Luther King Jr.
In honor of the civil rights leader‘s birthday on January 15 here are 12 books on his life and legacy for readers of all ages: