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“The storytelling is vivid and exquisitely emotional, making Aliki’s story painfully personal, yet resonant, in very few pages.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“An illuminating book for all collections that serve youngsters from other lands.”

—School Library Journal

“Although there have been many novels on the immigrant experience, few picture books have captured it with such well-crafted and telling simplicity.”

—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Marianthe’s Story: Painted Words and Spoken Memories

Written by Aliki
Illustrated by Aliki
Published by Greenwillow Books

Aliki’s acclaimed picture book follows Marianthe, a Greek girl who doesn’t understand English, as she starts school in the United States.

In Part I, “Painted Words,” Marianthe is frustrated about being unable to communicate with her peers. Her teacher encourages her to paint her words, and little by little she finds ways to share her story with her classmates.

In Part II, “Spoken Memories,” Marianthe tells her class about her life in Greece, how her Papa left for a better job in America, and how she and her family eventually came to join him.

Based on Aliki’s own experience as a schoolgirl in Philadelphia, this is an essential, timely, and relevant American immigration story. With appealing, accessible art and a universal message, Marianthe’s Story is sure to resonate with children and educators alike.

Primary ISBN: 9780688156619
Publication Date: September 1998
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Picture Book, Age 06 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Philadelphia PA)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

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

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