Here’s a book that teaches children an important lesson. When Libby gets caught telling a lie, her mama reprimands her, so she decides to always tell the truth. When children admire her best friend Ruthie Mae’s outfit, Libby points out the hole in Ruthie Mae’s sock. She confides to her teacher that Willie hasn’t done his homework, and she tells her neighbor Miz Tusselbury that her yard looks like a jungle. Before long, everyone is angry at Libby.
African Americans
For centuries, Africans brought to America as slaves and their descendents who were born into slavery were forced to keep their stories alive by telling them aloud. If slaves were caught writing–or teaching others–they were punished by law. Going to school was illegal. This Black History Month (February), in honor of African American storytellers of the past, celebrate today’s black authors whose words create powerful and beautiful literature. At the same time, be sure to take a closer look at the work of black illustrators whose art enhances the printed page. In this column, you’ll find a selection of newly published books and old favorites, written and/or illustrated by black authors and artists. These are only a sampling of titles to share with students. Look in your library for scores of others.
The Tales of Uncle Remus: The Adventures of Brer Rabbit
Here are more trickster tales. Uncle Remus narrates these entertaining stories about a wily rabbit, who tries to outsmart every big and little critter around. Lester adds just enough dialect to keep in touch with the spirit of these adventures which feature Brer Rabbit, his friends–and enemies.
The Talking Eggs
Another fairy tale to share is this story of kind, gentle Blanche. She must do all the work for her bossy mother and sister, until one day an old woman comes along and changes everything. Pinkney’s stunning watercolors add a touch of magic to this Creole version of Cinderella.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963
Enter the hilarious world of 10-year-old Kenny and his family, the Weird Watsons of Flint, Michigan. There’s Momma, Dad, little sister Joetta, and brother Byron, who’s 13 and an “official juvenile delinquent.” When Momma and Dad decide it’s time for a visit to Grandma, Dad comes home with the amazing Ultra-Glide, and the Watsons set out on a trip like no other. They’re heading South. They’re going to Birmingham, Alabama, toward one of the darkest moments in America’s history.
The Well
The Logan family is glad to share their water when all their neighbors’ wells go dry. But ten-year-old David Logan is challenged by mean-spirited Charlie, a white teenager, who is prejudiced against blacks. Tension builds in this story, keeping readers on edge until the end. Check your library for more stories about the Logan family and their struggle for civil rights, including In Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry and Let the Circle Be Unbroken.
Virgie Goes to School with Us Boys
This is another story of perseverance. Virgie begs to go to school with her older brothers. But it’s a seven-mile walk, and her siblings stay over at school all week, only coming home for the weekends. Virgie’s parents don’t think a young girl should make such a long trip and be away from home for so long. But Virgie remains determined and ends up getting the education she craves. Inspired by the stories of her grandfather’s family, Howard captures a girl’s passion to learn in the post-Civil War South.
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