Author: Mark
De La Pena
Illustrator: Christian
Robinson
Summary: Little
CJ and his grandmother ride the bus across the city every Sunday after church. CJ
begins to notice how others are different from him so he asks questions of his
Nana, questions that she answers with an affirming tone that encourages him to
notice and interact with the abundant life that surrounds him. CJ is open to
these new experiences. When they get off the bus, CJ asks why it is always so
dirty in the neighborhood. Nana wisely answers, “Sometimes when you’re
surrounded by dirt, CJ, you’re a better witness for what’s beautiful.” When
they arrive at their destination, a place where a communal meal is being served
to the poor, CJ sees the faces of familiar friends and proclaims that he is
glad they came. Nana agrees and begins serving the meal with CJ beside her.
Hanna’s Comments: If quickly read, this picture book offers a nice story about
diversity and abundance. However, there is much more here. Have your questions
ready to ask the children either during or after you’ve read the story. You may
want to prompt them with a few questions before reading. Talk about how they can be more aware of differences across communities, particularly when traveling. Delve into issues of
poverty, income segregation, gated communities, hospitality, jealousy, judgment, and/or engagement
with those who are different. In our church we are working towards developing deeper
relationships across differences. This requires time, effort, and sometimes
vulnerability and risk. Use this book well, and I believe it will bless
your community. Also, this book was recently highlighted on NPR. Here’s the link:
http://www.npr.org/2015/02/06/383856887/on-board-a-city-bus-a-little-boy-finds-the-route-to-gratitude
Original Publisher & Date of Publication: G. P. Putnam’s Sons,
2015
Age & Grade Appropriateness: 3 and up, Pre and up
# of Pages:
32
Available in Spanish? Not at present
Formats other than Book: Tablet, video, audio download
PBT Category: Award Winner (Newbery Award & Caldecott Honor)
PBT Topics this Book connects with: abundance/bounty, acceptance,
attentiveness/observation/seeing, blessings, body of Christ, choir/music/singing/songs,
community, coveting/envy/jealousy, differences, diversity, feasting/food/hunger/nutrition,
grandparents, gratitude/thanksgiving, humanity, integration, jealousy, journeys/migrations/pilgrimages/quests,
kindness, listening, openness, outreach, poverty, presence, questioning/questions,
sharing, at table, travel, variety, wisdom, witness
Scripture Connections: All these blessings shall come upon you if
you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city.
(Deuteronomy 28: 2-3); I came that they may have life and have it abundantly
(John 10:10)
Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children who are
learning about the importance of sharing in diverse community, including sharing experiences
such as meals, music, stories, worship experiences, and even
sharing the bus or other transportation. OR Read this book to a group of youth or adults who are about to embark on a mission activity with those who are different. Encourage them to notice and be open to the abundance of life and the blessings of the relationships and experiences to come.
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