John Lewis Get in the way

Director Dowdey presents the powerful story of civil rights activist, U.S. representative, and human rights champion John Lewis. Born into an Alabama sharecropper family in 1940, Lewis aspired to becoming a minister and attended a seminary in Nashville. However, Martin Luther King Jr. inspired him to participate in the civil rights movement. Lewis engaged in nonviolent civil disobedience and was arrested and beaten on multiple occasions, including the 1965 Bloody Sunday march in Selma, AL. He became president of the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee, served as a close confidant to King, and was the youngest speaker at the 1963 civil rights march in Washington, DC. Lewis entered Congress in 1986 after defeating Julian Bond in a divisive campaign. He won reelection 14 times since then and serves as a powerful voice in the Democratic Party. Lewis also plays an important role in advancing LGBTQ rights. The video includes interviews with Lewis and his family members, fellow representatives and congressional staffers, and individuals involved in the civil rights movement. VERDICT Viewers interested in the movement and its lasting effects on American society will enjoy this engaging and powerful film.-Stephen L. Hupp, West Virginia Univ. Parkersburg Lib. © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 6 Up-Taking its title from U.S. Rep. John Lewis's refrain that those eager to make a difference should "find a way to get in the way," this documentary covers key points in the civil rights leader's life, such as chairing the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, speaking at the March on Washington, and, as a congressperson, taking a stance in favor of gun control and LGBTQ rights. Commentary from Lewis, who cuts an unpretentious yet resolute figure, and admiring remarks from fellow politicians and activists drive the narrative, along with footage and photos depicting sit-ins and demonstrations in the face of brutality. What emerges is an enlightening portrait of a man who was willing to risk jail and injury for his beliefs-and still is (a scene of Lewis's arrest in 2013 at a protest in Washington, DC, for immigration reform reaffirms his reputation as a voice of integrity). The program generally avoids exploring flaws or moments of uncertainty, though Lewis does express regret about his behavior toward opponent Julian Bond during the cutthroat 1986 Democratic primary race for U.S. House of Representatives. The film touches on the tension within the civil rights movement, but those seeking a more detailed examination should supplement it with other materials, such as Lewis's "March" books. VERDICT For school and public libraries; a strong introductory choice for history courses.-Mahnaz Dar, School Library Journal © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.