Hello Library Friends!
It is Black History Month, a wonderful time to celebrate the fact that we live in a Nation of many different cultures and people. It is the perfect opportunity to spread book joy. Now is also an exciting time to "see ourselves" in a book, whether it is a picture book, a beginner reader book, or a novel.
While there are important books about the Civil Rights Era and the people who made great sacrifices for equality, this is not the “one story” of Black America. Too often, we fall into the danger of telling the “one story” and we miss all the layers and facets of Black culture.
Take the time to read a book to your child about Ruby Bridges or Rosa Parks, but also read about Libby making cupcakes with her friends or Zuri’s hair pride and how her father styles her hair.
In the world of intermediate and middle school novels, there are new stories that take place in space, the Spidey-Verse, and in one’s own backyard.
It is a powerful experience when you see people who look like you and come from a similar culture doing exciting, touching, and amazing things.
February 10 is the Lunar New Year for those who celebrate or are interested in learning about celebrations from different cultures. Many people wrongly think that it is the Chinese New Year, but this is only partially true because there are other countries that celebrate the Lunar New Year including Vietnam, South and North Korea, Singapore, and Cambodia. This will be the year of the Dragon, symbolizing good fortune, strength, and power.
All the featured books in this blog post are in our library and can be found in the public library as well.
Happy celebrating and reading!
Ms. B
