Ron's Big Mission

What the Story is About

This story comes from the real life of a little boy named Ron McNair, who later grew up as an astronaut. It's set in 1950s America, in a place called South Carolina, where there were official rules that treated people differently based on the colour of their skin. Black children and adults weren't allowed in many places—even public libraries.

Ron, just nine years old, loved books. He went to the library like he always did—but on that day, he was told he couldn't borrow books because of his skin colour. Ron didn't argue. He didn't leave. He simply stayed—calm, steady, and sure that he deserved a book.

He wasn't trying to protest. He just wanted to read. But that quiet insistence became something much larger.

Why This Book Matters

Ron's story offers children a quiet but powerful way to think about what's fair and what's not. It shows how a strong desire to learn can, without intending to, raise important questions about fairness and dignity.

In classrooms where some children might feel ignored or left out, this story offers hope. And for those who haven't faced unfairness directly, it builds understanding and empathy.

It also reminds us that change doesn't always start with a plan—it can begin with a question or even just a wish.

Themes to Explore (Ages 7–10)

To begin this conversation, you don't need to explain history in detail. Start small. Let children connect Ron's experience to their own.

Being brave in different ways: Ron didn't raise his voice or walk away. That kind of calm, quiet bravery is something many children can relate to. But loud bravery matters too—this story helps us notice both.

Holding on to what matters: Ron wanted a book. That's it. He didn't want to break the rules—he just wanted to read. His determination is what makes this story so moving.

What's fair and what's not: Children notice unfairness in games, groups, and even small daily rules. This story helps create space to talk about it.

When rules feel wrong: Many rules are made to help everyone. For example—wearing a helmet, following traffic lights, or standing in a queue. These rules make things safer, fairer, or more peaceful for everyone.

But sometimes, a rule can feel confusing or unfair. Maybe it leaves someone out. Or maybe no one remembers why it was made in the first place. That's when it's okay to pause and ask:

Does this rule still make sense? Is it helping everyone? Is it kind and fair?

Children usually understand if adults can explain why a rule exists—and it makes sense. But if a rule cannot be described in a way that respects everyone's dignity, it may be time to gently ask why it exists.

Ron didn't come to question a rule. He just went for a book. But because he stayed, the grown-ups around him had to stop and think. That, too, is how change sometimes begins.

For Older Children (Ages 11–13)

Older children may be ready to notice the bigger picture. Ron didn't set out to challenge a system—but what he did and how he did it still made people think. That's often how change begins.

You could explore:

• Unfairness in rules and systems: What happens when rules have been around so long that no one stops to ask if they're still fair?

• How different kinds of bravery look: Ron shows us one kind of courage—not a better kind, just a different one. Some people speak up, and some people sit still and wait. Both can change the world. What kind of bravery is yours?

• Ron's intent vs. society's response: Ron just wanted a book. But grown-ups saw something bigger. Why?

• Are there rules today that should be rethought? How do we talk about them kindly, without anger?

A Note for Teachers

Some children might already know what it feels like to be told "you can't"—because of their background, language, or how others see them. Others may be hearing this kind of story for the first time. Let the silence do its work. Don't rush to explain or fix.

Also, remember: Ron's bravery was quiet. But that doesn't mean it's the only kind that matters. Some children are louder, and some are gentler. Both deserve space. What matters is the why behind the action.

Ron didn't come to challenge a rule. He came for a book, and that's what makes his story so meaningful.

Let's Talk About It

• Use these questions to open gentle, thoughtful conversations:

• Why do you think Ron stayed?

• What was he hoping for?

• Have you ever wanted something so much that you didn't give up, even when it was hard?

• What would you have done if you were the librarian? Or the police officer?

• Can someone's quiet actions change how others think?

Activity Ideas

1. Library Stories

Invite children to draw or write about a book they love—or a day when they felt excited in a library. What does reading mean to them?

2. Mime: Standing for What's Fair

Through mime, children can act out simple unfair situations—being excluded from a game, not being heard—and then show how someone might respond kindly but firmly. Afterwards, reflect on how sometimes even silence can speak.

3. Fair vs. Unfair Sorting

Use simple examples from daily life (e.g., "Only boys get to carry the flag" or "Everyone got to choose their partner") and ask children to reflect: Was this fair? Could it be handled differently?

4. Our Dream Wall

Set up a small space where children can post their hopes—what they want to become, learn, or change. Title it: "Our Dream Wall: Big Missions Begin Small." Let Ron's love for learning inspire them.