This is Our House
Author Micheal Rosen Illustrator Bob Graham
Publisher Candlewick 1996
This title fits these anti-bias criteria
Y Y
This book fits these categories
Y -
Classification Picture Book
Acceptable grade levels Preschool and Primary grades
Concepts/ Topics covered in book:
"This house is mine," declares George as he stakes claim to a large cardboard box and then ruthlessly excludes everybody else because they are girls, or small, or wear glasses, have red hair or are twins. The author writes, "Our attitudes about who's okay and who's not get formed when we are very young. I've watch how some children carve out space for themselves using the language of discrimination. This book is a way of looking at that." This lighthearted, funny book helps children see the unfairness in exclusion. Don't be surprised if your young audience doesn't start protesting George's actions all on its own, saying: "That's not fair."after each child is rejected.
Guiding Questions/Activities
Before reading:
Set up a large box like in the book or create a play center. Ask: Who should be allowed to play here?
During reading:
- After each exclusion, ask: Is George being fair?
- How do you think the child who couldn't play felt?
- What should the children do?
After reading:
- How did the children teach George to be fair?
- What else could they have done?
- What could you do if this happened to you?
- Do you think George will play fairly next time?
- Is it fair to tell someone they can't play with you?
- What rules should we have for our box or play center?
Awards
Award: American Bookseller "Pick of the List" selection