Title: People
Author & Illustrator: Peter Spier
Publisher: Doubleday, 1980
Book Type: Non-Fiction
Ages: 4-8
Themes: Diversity, Population, Individuality
Excerpt:
“People around our world wear different clothes — or none at all.
All of us want to look our best. Still, what is considered beautiful or handsome in one place is considered ugly, and even ridiculous, elsewhere.”
Synopsis:
Celebration of people everywhere around the world, reminding us that we are all unique, different from one another – each deserving respect.
Activities:
There are many, many activities, classroom plans available on-line. I have listed just a few here.
- Lesson Plan for 1st graders – We are Different, We are Alike
- Class activity involving similar/difference worksheet & mobile craft – We Are All Unique
- Lesson Plans for KG-6th grade at Lesson Planet
Why I Like This Book:
I loved that my 7 year old poured over the pages of this book for over half an hour, looking at the myriad of detailed illustrations, and most importantly learning about the world’s people. Mr. Spier goes through all sorts of physical and cultural attributes – appearances, clothing, homes, jobs, food, religion – while constantly reminding the reader that what may appear strange to one culture is completely normal to another. As we become a tighter global community, the importance of books like this will continue to grow. This is a must have book for every classroom.
This review is part of Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Book series. Visit her site to see the other books recommended.
Flowering Minds 