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As Fast as Words Can Fly
As Fast as Words Can Fly
Average Rating: 0.0
Country: USA
Author: Pamela M. Tuck
Illustrator: Eric Velasquez
Ages: 10–12
Publisher: Lee & Low Books
Story Source: Storyline Online

About The Story

Set during the Civil Rights era, this true story follows Mason Steele, a gifted young Black boy who rises above systemic racism in school. When Mason integrates into a previously all-white school, he’s met with rejection—ignored by bus drivers, shunned by peers, and dismissed by teachers. Despite these obstacles, Mason excels in his studies and wins a prestigious typing contest, though even his achievements are met with scorn. With the support of his father and the Civil Rights authorities, Mason fights to keep a library job—one small yet powerful win against injustice. This story reminds us of the resilience of African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement and invites readers to consider how racial bias limits opportunity.

Themes

Social Emotional Learning
Biography

Sub Themes

Racial Bias & Inequality
Civil Rights Movement

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Understand the historical realities of racial segregation in education
  • Examine how internal and systemic biases impact individuals.
  • Reflect on their own assumptions and attitudes toward difference.
  • Be inspired by the quiet determination of those who seek justice peacefully.
  • Discuss how talent and fairness should be recognized regardless of race or background.

Lesson Plan

  • This lesson explores how courage and intellect can confront inequality.
  • Students analyze Mason’s experiences and consider where biases exist today—in themselves and society.
  • Activities include reflective writing, classroom discussions on fairness, and creative projects imagining a world free of prejudice.

Activities

  • Typing Tribute: Hold a typing contest to honor Mason’s victory and explore typing as a skill.
  • Breaking Bias Journal: Students reflect on where they see bias in the world and brainstorm ways to respond to it.
  • Civil Rights Timeline: Build a timeline of major civil rights events to give historical context to Mason’s experience.
  • Speak Up Posters: Create visual messages about standing up for others and fighting injustice peacefully.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • What do you know about the Civil Rights Movement?
  • What is ‘fairness’? Can you name a time when something felt unfair?
  • Why might someone be judged for something beyond their control?

During reading

  • How does Mason handle being left out or dismissed?
  • What role does his father play in supporting him?
  • Why is the typing contest such a big deal in the story?

After reading

  • What barriers did Mason face—and how did he overcome them?
  • What does this story say about how society treats people who are ‘different’?
  • Reflect on your own biases: Are there times when you’ve made a judgment about someone based on their skin color, name, accent, clothes, or beliefs?
  • How can we become more aware of our own biases—and begin to change them?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Mason’s access to education is shaped by race-based exclusion.

SDG 5 – Gender Equality

Challenges stereotypes about who deserves success.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Highlights racial injustice in schooling and workplace access.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Advocates for fairness and equal opportunity through peaceful means.

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