Part memoir, part call to action, this young readers’ edition dives into the inspiring life of the late U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings—from childhood through his time as chairman of the House Oversight Committee—and his tireless fight for justice. Elijah’s story comes complete with a full-color insert of photographs from the congressman’s life.

Growing up as the child of former sharecroppers in a segregated Baltimore, Elijah Cummings saw firsthand how injustice could run rampant, even in a democracy that promises fairness and equality. But with a strong support system and fiery self-discipline, Elijah utilized the momentum of the civil rights movement to overcome the obstacles of poverty and racism to effect change at a time when our country so badly needed it.

In We’re Better Than This, readers will learn not only that we must be and do better than our oppressors but that it is our shared responsibility as a nation to keep our democracy intact because it is the only way to pursue freedom, justice, and equality for all.

How does the son of sharecroppers become one of the most powerful leaders in America?

Social Justice for Kids: Follow a young Elijah as he marches to desegregate a local swimming pool and discovers his lifelong calling to fight for fairness and equality.
Overcoming Adversity: Learn how Cummings defied the obstacles of poverty and racism, transforming his experiences in segregated Baltimore into a powerful mission for change.
Inspiring Black History: A powerful, first-hand account of the civil rights movement and its legacy, showing young readers how the past shapes our present and future.
Public Service and Leadership: Go behind the scenes of the U.S. Congress and see how Chairman Cummings used his position to stand up for his community and hold power accountable.

We’re Better Than This: Young Readers’ Edition

We’re Better Than This: Young Readers’ Edition