Woodson, Jacqueline. 2001. THE OTHER SIDE. Ill. by E.B. Lewis. New York: G.P.
Putnam’s Sons. ISBN 0399231161
This is the story of a town divided by a wooden fence. The white citizens reside on one side of the fence and on the opposite side live the black citizens. There is no apparent reason for the fence other than “that is the way it has always been”. Life is good on each side. Children play and enjoy the summer in their peaceful neighborhoods. They are told, “Don’t climb over that fence when you play.” It is not safe. Curious children do not always do as their parents wish, as is the case here. Two girls from opposite sides do not exactly disobey the rules about the fence, they stretch them. Rather that climb the fence they begin by sitting atop it. This is where they begin their friendship which blossoms regardless of the fence which divides their lives. The beautiful watercolors depict carefree children full of expression. The illustrations complement the text and help to portray a new and valuable friendship which breaks racial barriers.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment