The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem's Greatest Bookstore
Carolrhoda Picture Books Series
What’s inside...
The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem's Greatest Bookstore is an award-winning children's book that has received accolades such as the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, ALA Notable Children's Book, CCBC Best Children's Book of the Year, Jane Addams Children's Book Award, and NCTE Notable recognition. This book provides a vivid portrayal of the impact of a bookstore in Harlem that became a hub for knowledge, empowerment, and community. The story follows Lewis's dad who had a 'book itch' that he needed to scratch, leading him to start the National Memorial African Bookstore. It became a center of black culture and a home to activists like Malcolm X.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Lewis Henri Michaux
Lewis Michaux Jr.
Malcolm X
Discussion points
Why do you think books were so important to the people who visited the bookstore in Harlem?
How did Lewis Michaux Jr. make a difference in his community through his bookstore?
What does 'freedom' mean in the context of this book, and why is it important?
Can you think of a time when you learned something important from a book, like the characters in the story?
What are some ways you can use your knowledge and voice to impact your community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes and ask your child for their opinion to make them feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the historical context of the book and current events, fostering a deeper understanding of the book's relevance.
Highlight the importance of community and ask your child about groups or communities they feel a part of and how they contribute or wish to contribute.
Ask your child to think about what 'freedom' means to them personally and in a broader societal context.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, which can lead to more personalized discussions about the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The story showcases the determination of Lewis Michaux, Sr. as he establishes and maintains a bookstore despite various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn that sticking with their goals, even when faced with difficulties, can lead to success and fulfillment.
Example Lesson: The power of knowledge and education
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes how Lewis’s bookstore becomes a center for learning and enlightenment in Harlem, advocating the significance of reading and self-education.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to value and seek knowledge through reading, which can empower them and broaden their horizons.
Example Lesson: Social justice and advocacy
Explanation: The book portrays the bookstore as a hub for African American culture and activism, highlighting the role of businesses in supporting social causes.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to understand and engage in social issues, and learn how they can contribute to making a difference in their community.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and cultural heritage
Explanation: The story celebrates Harlem's cultural richness and the diverse voices that contributed to its history through the lens of the bookstore.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: By setting the story during a transformative era of American history, it provides educational insights into past civil rights movements.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to delve deeper into historical events and understand how they shape contemporary society, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity for history.