Something Happened in Our Town: A Child’s Story about Racial Injustice
Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard, Authors
Jennifer Zivoin, Illustrator
Magination Press, Fiction, Apr. 4, 2018
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes: Racial injustice, Police shooting, Racism, Prejudice, Inequality, Social Justice
Opening: “Something bad happened in our town. The news was on the TV, the radio, and the internet. The grown-ups didn’t think the kids knew about it.”
Book Synopsis:
This story follows a White family and a Black family as they discuss their reactions to a recent police shooting of a Black man. Emma and Josh first hear some older kids discussing the shooting at school. And they have a lot of questions when they go home.
Emma questions her white parents about the tragedy. Emma wants to know why the police shot the man. Her parents say the shooting was “a mistake.” Her sister, Liz, says “the cops shot him because he was Black.” This leads them to a discussion about racism, inequality, slavery and prejudice.
Josh is Black and wants to know if the White policeman can go to jail? It gives his family the chance to have an open discussion about the shooting, racial profiling, inequality and the unique issues for African American families. They inspire him with stories about Black leaders who stood up for people treated unfairly.
When Emma and Josh return to school, there is a new boy in their classroom. His name is Omad. At recess none of the kids want to include Omad in a soccer game because he is different. But Emma and Josh remember their discussions with their parents and take action.
Why I like this book:
Kudos to the authors for writing this timely and compelling book for children about a difficult topic — police shootings. I also like the fact that both Emma and Josh have older siblings who speak their minds. The book narrative and language is age-appropriate and encourages questions and thoughtful discussions. The illustrations are expressive, colorful and capture the tension in the story. I hope that Something Happened in Our Town receives a lot of book love because it is a powerful and relevant resource for classrooms. The positive resolution empowers kids to make an effort to connect with kids who may be ignored and make a difference in their communities.
Resources: The book is a wonderful resource for parents and teachers. There is a Note to Parents and Caregivers at the end that provides general guidance about addressing racism with children, child-friendly vocabulary definitions, conversation guides, and a link to additional online resources for parents and teachers. In addition to modeling conversations about race, this book provides messages of acceptance, empowerment and positive community support.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books (PPB) with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
*Review copy provided by the publisher.
Children's Books Heal 
Thanks for reviewing the book, Pat! Sadly, quite timely. Will add it to my list. p.s. Not too heavy for 4 year old crowd?
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I would take into account the maturity of the child. But it is a topic they hear on the news all the time. They have to practice active shooter drills at school. It’s all around them. Makes a lot of sense to use a book like this to discuss shootings with kids.
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Dear God. It’s horrible that books like this need to exists.
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I know. But, kids hear about it every where, so it’s nice to have a book to discuss the subject with your kids.
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I know it’s important and this looks like an amazing book, but…you know.
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WOW, this is the first time I have seen this addressed at picture book level. That is a powerful cover and I read in the right context I can see this being a great resource.
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Me too! Little kids watch TV too and unfortunately many will know of someone who has been shot. The timing of this book is right and it belongs in school libraries everywhere.
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Everything that everyone else has already said. I just put a hold on this. Thanks for the rec, Patricia!
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Will look forward to your review. It could use more exposure.
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The cover says a lot about our current world. I’m glad this topic is being discussed with 4-8 year olds. Thanks for your letting me know about this book.
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You are welcome! I agree with you.
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Wow – I was captivated by that cover. The different color footprints across the newspaper. How ingenious. It is a difficult topic and maybe one I wouldn’t have gravitated to, but now I will go find it. Thanks for a great review.
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Yes, isn’t the cover great! I should have mentioned it. I’m just glad there is a book parents can use to use when a shooting is on the news.
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Wow, kudos to the authors for tackling such a difficult-to-write subject for the picture book reader.
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I agree. It’s a good go-to book. It belongs in libraries and school libraries.
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Wow! Pat you have certainly come across a big story for little people. But one that is unfortunately needed now. I’m going to see if the library here will get it in.
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My library is really good about ordering books I request. I hope you get a chance to read it!
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I like the premise and purpose of this book. It seems to paint a true picture. Children often know a lot more about what’s going on than adults want to think and they are often shielded from the truth. A book like this that opens up honest conversations between adults and children has an important role to play in shaping our society and the way we treat each other.
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Exactly! Kids do know a lot more about what is happening — they see it on TV, hear it at school etc. Thanks for you lovely comment.
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Thank you for informing me about so many books with positive and important messages.
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Wow – what a difficult story to write. Props to the authors for tackling such a tough subject.
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It is a difficult story, but one that is important for many kids to read and discuss with a teacher or adult.
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This is a great book to add to your collection. I conduct PD on racial inequality as an education and this is something that can be used to open the eyes to educators who are oblivious also!
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One of my favorite shares this year! It can be used in many ways. Thank you for visiting!
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