There Was a Party for Langston
What’s inside...
New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Jason Reynolds’s debut picture book is a snappy, joyous ode to Word King, literary genius, and glass-ceiling smasher Langston Hughes and the luminaries he inspired. The book celebrates a vibrant party where figures like Maya Angelou and Amiri Baraka recited poems at the Schomberg Library in Harlem, all in honor of Hughes's profound impact on literature. This book is also a Caldecott Honor Book, recognizing its excellence in children's literature.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the characters wanted to throw a party for Langston?
How do you think Langston felt during the party? Can you think of a time when you felt similar?
What are some ways the guests at the party showed they cared about Langston?
What does friendship mean in the story, and what can we learn about being good friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the story in their own words, encouraging them to express their understanding and interpretations. Use positive reinforcement to show appreciation for their thoughts. Relate the story's themes to your child's personal experiences to deepen their connection with the content. Finally, express interest in their opinions and feelings about the story to foster a supportive conversation environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story depicts how Langston’s friends gather to throw him a party, showcasing the value of friendship and camaraderie.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and cultivate friendships, understanding the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The book includes characters from diverse backgrounds, helping to teach inclusivity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing peers from various cultures and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in community settings.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Milestones
Explanation: Langston’s party is a celebration of his achievements, illustrating the importance of recognizing and celebrating personal milestones.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and celebrate their own and others' achievements, whether big or small, in academic or extracurricular activities.