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“Selavi offers a realistic view of children whose lives are sometimes disconcerting and sometimes hopeful. It will be useful in communities that serve Haitian-Americans, and libraries in which children are exploring issues of social justice.”
— School Library Journal

Selavi, That is Life: A Haitian Story of Hope

Written by Youme Nguyen Ly
Published by Cinco Puntos Press

On the streets of Haiti, a homeless child learns the meaning of family, solidarity, and hope.

A homeless boy wanders the streets of Haiti, until he finds other children like him. His new friends help the boy pick a name for himself–Sélavi, Kreyol for that is life. All these children had faced tragedy like Sélavi and had no one to care for them. But they share the little food they each manage to scavenge, and they watch out for one another.

Together they find the voice to express the needs of Timoun Lari, the children who live in the streets. With a caring community they are able to build a shelter, and from there they create Radyo Timoun, Children’s Radio. A station run by and for children–their stories, questions, and suggestions were broadcast for all to hear. Though more obstacles come their way, they’ve learned that when people band together and form a community, everyone is lifted. “We may be a single drop of water, but together we can be a mighty river.”

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: September 2005
Available As: Paperback
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , ,

Setting: Haiti

Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: In Home Country

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