Summary
This book has a hidden message about what happens to diverse groups around the world experience. The story follows a young girl Usha as she searchers for the sun. When her grandpa was younger, someone built a wall blocking the sun. Usha makes it her mission to find the sun for her grandpa. Usha uses her voice to break down the wall only to find that the children and people on the other side are not different from her. Usha works to right the injustice for her grandpa and others.
Theme(s):
Overcoming, adventure, courage
Personal Response
This book brought some discomfort on my end due to the meaning behind the book. The main character is illustrated as a person of color experiencing an injustice, but the author never comes out and says this is what the book is about. Usha represents a minority population that has been blocked out by this wall. Although the reason is unknown, the reader can make assumptions relating to diversity topics, such as race. Instead of meeting the wall with hatred, Usha uses her kindness and voice.
Teaching Ideas
I would use this book to teach my student about standing up for injustices and that making your voice heard can have a huge impact on your life and the lives of others around you. In today’s world, students are met with more and more topics that can be seen as injustices; as a person, they have the choice to either watch these injustices take place or stand up for themselves and others affected by the injustices. This text represents the idea of being on the right of history/doing right.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02, Grade 03
