Pies from Nowhere
Book Summary:
This picture book tells the true story of Georgia Gilmore, a cook in Montgomery, Alabama, who secretly baked and sold pies to raise money during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. After losing her job for supporting the movement, she organized a network of women known as the “Club from Nowhere” to financially sustain the protest. The book highlights how ordinary citizens played vital roles in advancing the Civil Rights Movement through everyday acts of courage and community organizing.
Recommended Questions:
What problem were people in Montgomery protesting during the bus boycott?
How did food, cooking, and community networks help sustain the movement?
Why was fundraising essential to the success of the Montgomery Bus Boycott?
How does this story expand your understanding of the Montgomery Bus Boycott beyond famous leaders?
What various forms of civic participation do you see in the book?
Why is collective action important when challenging unfair laws or systems?
How is Georgia Gilmore remembered today? Research examples such as the historical marker placed outside her home and explain why communities create historical markers to honor individuals. Link to good resource https://theclio.com/entry/66589
The author’s note quotes Georgia Gilmore as saying, “You cannot be afraid if you want to accomplish anything. You’ve got to have the willing, the spirit, and above all you’ve got to have the get-up.” Based on your understanding of Georgia Gilmore and her actions, what do you think this quote means? How does it reflect her character and the broader Civil Rights Movement?
NCSS Theme 10: Civic Ideals and Practices
This book demonstrates how individuals participate in democratic action to challenge injustice. Georgia Gilmore’s work shows that civic engagement extends beyond protests and speeches to include community support, fundraising, and collective responsibility. Students learn how citizens can actively contribute to social change even without holding formal leadership positions.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 17: Responsibly to stand up to injustice
Georgia Gilmore recognized injustice in segregated public transportation and took action despite personal risk. Her story shows students that advocacy can occur through everyday skills and community collaboration. The book reinforces the idea that meaningful change often depends on collective action and individual responsibility.
WA Economics 2: Understands the components of an economic system
This book illustrates how community members created an alternative economic system to support the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Through baking, selling pies, and pooling resources, Georgia Gilmore and the “Club from Nowhere” demonstrated how goods, services, and financial exchange can be organized collectively to sustain social movements and meet community needs.
