This summary provides the essential details about the story of Ruby Bridges in 3 sentences: The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles tells the story of a young African American girl who was one of the first black children to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in the 1960s, facing intense racism and threats but persevering with courage, faith and determination to break barriers of segregation. The climax occurs when Ruby stops in front of an angry white mob screaming outside the school and prays for them, walking into the school. The main characters of brave Ruby and thoughtful teacher Mrs. Henry are highlighted for their progressive actions during a time of racial tensions.