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Elementary

Brendan Buckley’s Universe and Everything in It

Author: Sundee T. Frazier

Illustrator: N/A

brendan-buckley-universe

Why We Love It

Ten-year old Brendan is the believable protagonist in this book. It has realistic dialogue and thoughtful reflections on topics including race relations and integrity. Brendan keeps a journal about the mysteries in his life, including why he has never met his local grandfather. The story deftly addresses the complicated ways that families come apart and reconnect, all providing great opportunities for reflection and discussion.

Follow-Up Fun

  • Do you think it was wise or foolish for Brendan to visit his grandfather secretly? Is it ever OK to keep secrets?
  • Brendan is becoming an avid rock collector like his grandfather.  He examines many specimens using the Mohs hardness scale shown here:
  • Watch this nine minute video showing young children’s preference for a white or black doll and what skin color means.  What conclusions do you draw about this?

Recommended Read-Alikes

  • Brendan Buckley’s Sixth Grade Experiment by Sundee T. Frazier
  • Night Fires by George E. Stanley
  • The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

Tags: african american, coming of age, coretta scott king award, elementary, family, grandfather, multiracial, prejudice, realistic fiction, rock collecting, science

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