Summary
This story is about Langston’s life. He is an African American boy learning to love himself and embrace his feelings. He finds that he is often very emotional and feeling things very deeply. With the help of grown ups he is able to navigate these big emotions and use his sensitivity as a strength. He learns to love that his empathetic mind makes him special.
Theme(s):
Self-Image, Emotions, Empathy
Personal Response
I wish I knew about this book when I taught Kindergarten! Langston is experiencing big emotions just as many young kids do. I especially loved that he had adults help him navigate his emotions and sensitivity. This is a great option for many students in our schools! Big emotions can be overwhelming and make children feel singled out. Emotional regulation is such a huge part of learning to grow up!
Teaching Ideas
Students would benefit from comparing themselves to Langston. Have students split a piece of paper in half. Draw Langston and then draw three speech bubbles above his head. They can pick three emotions that he felt during the story and either explain them or draw them in the bubbles. On the other half, they should complete a self portrait. They can label themselves with three emotions they have felt. After, hold a conversation about how students chose to regulate or resolve those emotions.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01
