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I read this for book club, and while it doesn't rise to the level of Steinbeck's later more well-known works, it has a historical significance that makes it worth reading. Jim, a young man searching for meaning, joins Mac, an experienced activist, in an effort to organize a strike among apple pickers in 1930s California. The novel focuses on the mechanics of the strike rather than the interior lives of characters, but presents a vivid picture.

“Clara knows in her heart what is right, and she is not afraid to fight for it.“

Meet Clara Lemlich, the unstoppable force behind the largest women-led strike in U.S. history. Brave Girl by Michelle Markel and Melissa Sweet is an inspiring tale of courage, determination, and the fight for fairness. With dynamic illustrations and a powerful message, this book celebrates a young woman who refused to stay silent and changed the world for working women everywhere.

Brave Girl tells the powerful story of Clara Lemlich, a young immigrant who led the charge for workers' rights in early 20th-century America. Michelle Markel‘s compelling narrative brings Clara‘s bravery and determination to life, while Melissa Sweet‘s stunning mixed-media illustrations vividly capture the energy of the labor movement.

“They could have killed every one of you”

I would use this to show my students that literature can be used with songs. I would also use this to teach my students to fight for what is right.

In George Ella Lyons book, Which side are you on? Published in 2011. The story is told of the classic union song that was written in 1931 by Florence Reece in a rain of bullets. It has been sung by people fighting for their rights all over the world.

I read this book years ago (written in 2007). I have pulled it out to re-read it. Anyone who wants to understand how our global economy works & the labor that is used, this is an eye opening book. Especially now that we are entering a new era of backlash against immigration & migrant workers. Many US companies use modern slave labor as their workforce. It‘s easy to turn a blind eye or blame others if we don‘t know the circumstances.

Another book club read. It just wasn‘t for me. Maybe because I did it as an audio book? Maybe because I wasn‘t interested in the topic? Maybe I wasn‘t able to fully comprehend it due to current events? Either way, it was very well written and narrated. I did learn a thing or 2 about the unionization of coal mining. Just too many old western type shoot outs for me.

“We are not afraid to fight for what is right.“