Awards Won: Association of Children’s Librarians Distinguished Book nominee; School Library Journal Best Picture Book of 2016 [list] Review Forgiveness is a tricky topic to convey in children’s books but Zetta Elliott elegantly describes the lightness of redemption through simple text and gentle storyline. The setting is mundane – Melena’s house, her family, the neighborhood and playground – but we see this world through Melena’s jubilant perspective, which is illustrated through vibrant color in a joyful collage of paint, ink, and watercolor. Melena narrates the story in first person, which draws young readers in on a personal level. We share her experience as well as her closeness to her grandmother, mother, and friends. Melena is African American as is friend Helen. Gavin, whose debt of a dollar Melena forgives, is white. Back matter includes an author’s note about the concept of jubilee and its context in African American history. There is also a list of seven ways to have your own “fresh start day”, which includes tidying your room and donating unused toys, choosing peace over revenge, and doing something nice for others – just because!
Themes
Forgiveness; Friendship; Family; Jubilee Application As Zetta Elliott writes in her author’s note, “jubilee remains relevant in our world because everyone understands the value of starting over.” Melena’s story would be a perfect basis for a New Years celebration in a library family storytime or classroom. Instead of making random resolutions, encourage children and their parents to write down five ways we can see joy in our world and share what we have with those who need help. Print ideas on bookmarks to act as reminders. Librarians can also start a Jubilee community board, on which patrons can answer the question, “What can you do to have a “fresh start day?” Include Elliot’s list as a prompt and provide colorful markers or crayons. Read-alikes: Gonzalez, M. C. (2014). Call Me Tree. Author Website: http://zettaelliott.com/ Illustrator Website: http://aaronboydart.blogspot.com/ References: Melena’s Jubilee [cover image]. Retrieved from https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/510vrxBcLmL._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg Bird, E. (December 31, 2016). 31days, 31lists: The best picture books of 2016 [blog post]. Retrieved from http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production/2016/12/31/31-days-31-lists-day-31-the-best-picture-books-of-2016/#_ Elliott, Zetta. (n.d.). Why I write. Retrieved from http://www.zettaelliott.com/bio/why-i-write/ TitleWave. Retrieved from http://www.titlewave.com Zetta Elliott [image]. Retrieved from http://1t8r984d8wic2jedckksuin1.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/dsc07819-696x547.jpg
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