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9/12/2016 2 Comments

Multicultural "Just Right" Books

Just as important as making schooling explicit to all students is making space for the cultures of all students in our schools. One impactful way we can do this is by allowing students to see themselves in the literature they read - making books accessible in which the main characters may look and act like children like themselves. As a teacher, the trouble is this is often easier said than done. Beautiful award winning chapter books like Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry or The Watsons Go to Birmingham or picture books such as Ruby Bridges can quickly come to mind when we think of multicultural children’s literature. These books are often easily found at the chain bookstores or Scholastic Book fairs. Yet, while these texts are wonderful, the trouble is they are not “just right” books for most elementary students to read independently. Additionally, while the content is historically very relevant, they may not be relevant to the contemporary daily lives of today’s 7-11 year olds who may be looking for an easy, fun read about kids their age doing things they like to do. As a literacy specialist, I made it a goal each year to seek chapter books, particularly series, that showcased main characters of color in which the majority of elementary students could read independently.  Here is a list of texts I found my students have enjoyed over the years. The list is, of course, always evolving as additions are made, and so will become more comprehensive over time. I am always looking for ideas - Please send suggestions my way! 

Multicultural Chapter Book List Independent Levels - Elementary
2 Comments
Dr. Kalpana Mukunda Iyengar link
9/13/2016 09:05:46 am

Balarama: A Royal Elephant by Ted Lewin and Betsy Lewin is one of my favorite picture books.
Elephants, the largest land animals on Earth, have long been a part of life throughout India. Some of these huge creatures are trained to do heavy work. Others perform in public festivals. When Ted and Betsy Lewin arrive in southern India to see the elephants, they are introduced to Drona, the Royal Elephant that leads the glorious procession on the last day of Dasara, a centuries-old festival celebrated each fall.

The Lewins are so enthralled with Drona that they decide to return the following year for Dasara. They arrive to find out that Drona has been in an accident and a new lead elephant, the majestic Balarama, has been chosen. This will be his first time carrying the golden howdah a beautifully carved ceremonial carriage in the grand finale parade of the Dasara festivities. All eyes will be on Balarama as he makes his debut.

With exciting narrative and vividly colored paintings, Ted and Betsy Lewin invite readers to meet the elephants up close and to participate in the wonderful spectacle of the last day of Dasara. This is an adventure no one will want to miss" (Amazon Books).
2. Grandfather Gandhi by Arun Gandhi and Bethany Hegedus is also a wonderful picture book.

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Bridget Erickson
9/14/2016 11:06:07 pm

Thank you for the addition!

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