BIBLIOGRAPHY
De La Peña, Matt. 2015. LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET. Ill. by Christian Robinson. New York, NY: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. ISBN 978-0-399-25774-2
SUMMARY
Upon leaving church, CJ and his grandmother walk under the umbrella in the rain to the bus stop towards the soup kitchen where they volunteer. Along the way CJ wonders why they have to travel by bus and wait in the rain, so grandmother opens his eyes to the beauty around them as they travel to their final destination on Market Street. There, they happily see all the familiar faces from their trip.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
As CJ and his grandmother walk through the city, CJ’s grandmother’s words of wisdom shine light on her young grandson as she tries to make him see the beauty in the bus, the people and their trip. There is a diverse group of characters in the story from young children to older people while including physical disabilities and musical talent.
Every complaint CJ makes is answered with a positive and insightful response by his grandmother which we see in the illustrations. They complement the story as they set the mood for the different times where CJ is wondering, reflecting and appreciating the beauty in everyday things. As well as not only seeing the beauty in life but appreciating it in other ways such as hearing it as well.
De La Peña’s figurative language highlights CJ’s realization of his grandmother’s knowledge as they walk past the busy cityscape. The vibrant colors of the illustrations move the story along from dark rainy skies to rainbow lit views. Collage, acrylics and digital manipulation make up the illustrations that creatively appeal to readers of all ages.
REVIEW EXCERPT’s/AWARDS
Booklist 02/01/15
Caldecott Honor, 2016
Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, 2016
Horn Book Guide Starred 10/01/15
Booklist 2015: "The celebratory warmth is irresistible, offering a picture of community that resonates with harmony and diversity.”
Horn Book Guide starred 2015 "...the exquisitely composed collage illustrations showing a glamour-free urban setting forbid a glib reading. A quietly remarkable book.”
CONNECTIONS
This story of diversity and inclusion is a great read for the elementary age group. Having an adult guide the reader to the details of the illustrations is important and a great read for adults as well.
The story has a great message and is very relatable to any child adult relationship.
This story is great for a Social Emotional Learning activity where feelings and emotions can be expressed and talked about.
Castillo, Lauren. NANA IN THE CITY. ISBN 978-0-544-10443-3
Keats, Ezra Jack. GOGGLES! ISBN 978-0-14-056440-2
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