3.85
"The Hundred Penny Box" by Sharon Bell Mathis is a heartwarming and poignant novel that explores the themes of family, tradition, and the passage of time. The story centers around Gina, a young girl who discovers her great-grandmother's "hundred penny box," a collection of pennies from each year of her life. As Gina learns about the history and significance of the box, she also discovers the importance of preserving family traditions and the value of cherishing the memories and experiences of those who came before us. Mathis' writing is rich and evocative, bringing the characters and setting to life in a way that is both engaging and authentic. The relationship between Gina and her great-grandmother, known as Big Ma, is particularly well-drawn, as the two navigate the challenges of growing older and growing apart. Through their bond, Mathis highlights the power of intergenerational connections and the wisdom that can be gained from those who have lived long and meaningful lives. The novel also touches on issues of race and social justice, as Gina and her family navigate the challenges of living in a predominantly white neighborhood. Through these experiences, Mathis encourages readers to consider the importance of diversity, inclusion, and empathy. Overall, "The Hundred Penny Box" is a beautiful and thought-provoking novel that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Its timeless themes and memorable characters make it a classic of children's literature that will be enjoyed for generations to come...
Mildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
This Newbery Medal-winning novel tells the story of the Logan family, who are determined to hold on to their land and dignity in the face of racism and prejudice in 1930s Mississippi. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of family, heritage, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreChristopher Paul Curtis
Bud, Not Buddy
In this Newbery Medal-winning novel, 10-year-old Bud, an orphan in Flint, Michigan, sets off on a journey to find his father after the death of his mother. Along the way, he encounters a cast of colorful characters and learns about the power of hope and determination. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book features a young African-American protagonist and explores themes of family and self-discovery.
Learn MoreKatherine Paterson
The Great Gilly Hopkins
In this Newbery Honor-winning novel, eleven-year-old Gilly Hopkins is a foster child who has been shuffled from one family to another. When she is placed with a kind, eccentric woman named Maime Trotter, Gilly begins to learn the true meaning of family and belonging. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of family, heritage, and self-discovery.
Learn MoreSharon G. Flake
The Skin I'm In
In this novel, thirteen-year-old Maleeka Madison is teased for her dark skin and poor clothes. But when a new teacher, Miss Saunders, comes to her school, Maleeka learns to stand up for herself and embrace her own beauty. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and self-acceptance.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
The Land
In this prequel to 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry', this novel tells the story of Paul-Edward and his family, who are sharecroppers in Mississippi in the early 1900s. When they are cheated out of their rightful share of the crop, Paul-Edward and his brother, Stacey, must find a way to save their family's land. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of family, heritage, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
The Road to Memphis
In this novel, Cassie Logan and her family are faced with the challenges of growing up in Mississippi during the Civil Rights era. When her older brother, Stacey, gets into trouble with the law, Cassie and her friends must find a way to help him. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of family, heritage, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
In this dystopian novel, Jonas lives in a society where everything is perfect and everyone is assigned a role in life. But when Jonas is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, he begins to question the society's rules and discovers the truth about its past. Like 'The Hundred Penny Box', this book explores themes of heritage, self-discovery, and the importance of memories and traditions.
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