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“The story is heart-wrenching and an eye opener to maybe those that do not have to live a life of indignities.The illustrations are done with chalk as cartoon-ish chunky characters. The colors are mainly muted and darker which adds to the overall sadness of the book. The book is targeted to 6+ and much discussion can take place with the reading and rereading of this book. Think about it and read this winner of a book. 5 stars!”

—Reading Authors Blog

A Shelter in Our Car

Written by Monica Gunning
Illustrated by Elaine Pedlar
Published by Lee & Low Books

Zettie and her Mama left their warm and comfortable home in Jamaica for an uncertain life in the United States. With Papa gone, Mama can’t find a steady job that will sustain them and so they are forced to live in their car. But Mama’s unwavering love, support, and gutsy determination give Zettie the confidence that, together, she and her mother can meet all challenges.

Monica Gunning’s moving and authentic story about homelessness in an American city was developed with the help of the Homeless Children’s Network in San Francisco. Elaine Pedlar’s strong and lively illustrations bring the story to life in vibrant chalk pastel.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: May 2014
Available As: Paperback
Picture Book, Age 05 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Teacher’s Guide

Source: Lee & Low Books