Goodreads Review:
A glimpse into the boyhood of Civil Rights leader John Lewis.

John wants to be a preacher when he grows up—a leader whose words stir hearts to change, minds to think, and bodies to take action. But why wait? When John is put in charge of the family farm’s flock of chickens, he discovers that they make a wonderful congregation! So he preaches to his flock, and they listen, content under his watchful care, riveted by the rhythm of his voice.

Critically acclaimed author Jabari Asim and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis give readers a fascinating glimpse into the boyhood of Civil Rights leader John Lewis.

John wants to be a preacher when he grows up—a leader whose words stir hearts to change, minds to think, and bodies to take action. But why wait? When John is put in charge of the family farm’s flock of chickens, he discovers that they make a wonderful congregation! So he preaches to his flock, and they listen, content under his watchful care, riveted by the rhythm of his voice.

I really enjoyed Preaching To The Chickens for two reasons. One reason I enjoyed the story is because it broadens the perspective of readers. John Lewis wanted to be a preacher. “John even baptized the chicks, bathing them in water from an old syrup can. When I was taught professions, I never know being a preacher was an option. This book teaches readers about how John Lewis discovered he wanted to be a preacher. He spent many Sundays in church, and wanted to impact people the way preachers impacted the congregation. This book also broadens the perspective of the reader, because John Lewis is famous for being a politician. This books teaches readers about John Lewis’s days as a child.
Another reason I really enjoyed this book is because the main character is believable. John Lewis practiced his preaching on the chickens as he was tending the farm. I can relate to practice teaching my stuffed animals. John knew what he wanted to do with his life, and he incorporated that into his child duties. Although, John worked on a farm, he had a greater vision for his life that he worked for.
The big idea for this story is to follow your dreams. John Lewis connected his work as a farmer to his passion to be a preacher. “John stretched his hands above his flock, and words poured forth.” John Lewis did not let his current situation as a farmer impact his dreams. ( )

"Aglimpse into the childhood whimsy of an important African-American congressman who has become famous for his words.

Long before John Lewis spoke to thousands during the civil rights movement, he honed his elocution skills by preaching to his 60 farmyard chickens. Knowing each one by name and habits, John protected his chickens from those who wanted to trade for them, rescued them when they fell into the well, and even once brought a nearly drowned chick back to life. Bringing a message of peace when the chickens bickered over food, John earned the nickname “Preacher” from his siblings. Illustrator Lewis’ signature watercolors paint a lively picture of John Lewis’ life growing up on a farm with a close and hardworking Christian family. The liveliness of the chickens as well as John’s concern and care for them shine in the light-dappled images. Given the seriousness of what Lewis faced on the march from Selma to Montgomery and the gravity of the issues he has dealt with throughout his career, this joy-inducing back story reveals an entertaining facet to the congressman’s life that young readers will appreciate.

After absorbing this must-read bit of personal history about John Lewis, young readers will never see this serious-faced congressman in quite the same way." A Kirkus starred review, www.kirkusreviews.com