Nelson, Marilyn. Lubaya’s Quiet Roar. Dial Books for Young Readers, 2020. 978-0-525-55555-1. Unpaged. $17.99. PreK-Grade 2.

Lubaya is a young, African American introvert. She sits quietly at school, rarely ever raising her hand, and she spends most of her time at home drawing pictures behind the couch while her family watches television. She does listen to the TV, however, and writes down words and pictures that express her understanding of the news. Therefore, when it comes time to march against injustice, it is her pictures that the protestors hold. In this way, Lubaya makes her voice heard without ever having to raise it. An inspirational story about the power of quiet action, this book will encourage bashful students to use their strengths and talents for the greater good.

THOUGHTS: This is a very relevant story for this extraordinary time in our nation’s history. With protests and upheavals becoming so commonplace in our society, I think it is important to remind children and adults alike that perhaps there are ways to achieve our goals by means other than noise and violence. Additionally, it is important that we encourage our shy, introverted students to get involved in whatever capacity best suits them. Overall, this is a solid title that deserves a place on every elementary shelf.

Picture Book          Julie Ritter, PSLA Member