Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace addresses some important topics. Grace's classmates tell her that she can't be Peter Pan in the school play because she is a girl and because she is black. Thankfully, Grace has a strong grandma and mother who encourage her to do anything she wants. Grace's classmates don't seem intentionally rude or unkind--just matter-of-fact--but their believable examples illustrate in a way that children can understand and empathize with the importance of acceptance and open-mindedness. The book can prompt important and meaningful discussions with children about the dangers of making assumptions, stereotyping or other insensitivities that can chip away at our societal fabric if we allow them to continue unchecked. This story can help children imagine what it's like to have others tell them they can't do something or be something because of the color of their skin, their gender, or a range of other imaginable distinctions and differences and think about how they can be inviting and encouraging.

A beautiful book about being yourself and having the confidence to know you can accomplish anything you set your mind to if you're willing to work at it. Grace's mother and grandmother are wonderful examples and provide Grace with the encouragement and perspective she needs as she deals with adversity and show the power of wisdom shared through generations. The illustrations are beautiful as well, and the light touching on diversity is powerful without overwhelming the other equally powerful messages in the story.