Wednesday, February 5, 2025

International Literature Book Review: Letters in Charcoal

 A. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Vasco, Irene. Letters in Charcoal. 1 Jan. 2015. Lantana Publishing.


B. PLOT SUMMARY
This children’s picture book is about a girl who wants to learn to read. Her experience in a very small town in Columbia is a unique one. There is only one person who knows how to read where she lives. The story follows the steps this girl takes to learn to read.

 

C. CRITICAL ANALYSIS (INCLUDING CULTURAL MARKERS)

This book contains several cultural markers including the way the characters look, the aspects of poverty that affect this town and way the characters interact with each other in the community. This is a heartwarming and reflective book. It shows the impact of education in these small communities.

 

D. REVIEW EXCERPTS

“Vasco’s narrative reminds readers that even in the face of lost connections, the joy of reading can light the way to a brighter future. A heartfelt tale that captures the transformative power of education.”—Kirkus Reviews


E. CONNECTIONS
This is a compelling story that could be used to teach children about how not everyone grows up with opportunities and privilege. Teachers could use a Venn diagram to compare the growing and learning experiences of their lives and this character.


By Barbara Jean Thompson

 

 

 

 

 

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