Sharing the Dream

By: Shelia P. Moses

An inspiring portrait of a monumental day in US history, seen through a child’s eyes

Agnes can hardly contain her excitement! She’s headed to the March on Washington. Sitting on her father’s shoulders, she’s awed by the sea of people—people of every color, gathered together to be a part of the fight for equal rights for Black people. She soaks in the words of John Lewis and Josephine Baker and is mesmerized by Mahalia Jackson’s singing. Then Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gives a speech about his dreams for his children—for all children. On the bus ride home, Agnes has her own dream: that the words of Dr. King would be heard and embraced by the whole world.

©2025 Shelia P. Moses (P)2025 Listening Library

Critic reviews

“The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, seen through the eyes of a young Black girl. Along with her parents, young Agnes travels by bus from Birmingham, Alabama, to Washington, D.C., proud to be taking part in this momentous occasion in the summer of 1963. . . . Agnes dreams of prominent figures of the Civil Rights Movement such as Sidney Poitier, Lena Horne, and Jackie Robinson. (Backmatter offers a spotlight on some of the famous people who were part of the March.) Once in D.C., a detour to the historic home of Frederick Douglass places a lot of what’s happening in helpful perspective. . . . Agnes is pleasantly surprised to see people from all walks of life using the same water fountains (there are no 'whites only' signs in sight), marching shoulder to shoulder, sharing a poignant moment in the reflection pond, and uniting for what’s right. Sitting on Daddy’s shoulders, Agnes takes in monumental words from John Lewis and Josephine Baker, a moving performance from Mahalia Jackson, and, ultimately, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 'I Have a Dream' speech. Moses’ text is tinged with childlike excitement and wonder. Mallett’s digital illustrations glow with warmth, with Agnes’ braids and yellow bows framing her joyful face as she listens to the speakers with pride. A stirring tale and proof positive that young people can help make history, too.”—Kirkus Reviews