Visiting Author Reads and Talks of "Grandmama's Pride"

Becky Birtha, author of the acclaimed picture book "Grandmama's Pride," visited the Lower School on April 26 as author-in-residence. Birtha worked with students in each grade, using her book as the foundation for the interaction.

"Grandmama's Pride" is historical fiction and takes place during a lazy summer in 1956 when six-year-old Sarah and her family travel south by bus to visit her grandmother. In the South, Sarah and her sister see unusual signs everywhere - on water fountains, restrooms, restaurants - that caution: "Whites only." Her story about family dignity and strength is based on historical events and memories from Birtha's childhood.

During her day in Lower School, Birtha talked about her experience getting her first book published, her research and knowledge of the struggle that led to the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and her journey as an African-American Quaker. She also read her book to classes.

Birtha's visit to Penn Charter was part of the school's Distinguished Speaker Series.