At first I did not like this book, it seemed like it looked down on poor people. But I think it’s just matter of fact. I don’t generally see representation of families who live this way, with yards that are not sterile and empty.

It addresses how people do treat people on “the wrong sides of the tracks”. It also addresses eminent domain. The erasure of the working poor and pushing aside of them is not something I’ve commonly found either. I would pair this with The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton. ( )

(see if this works with Toddlecreek Post Office by Uri Shulevitz)

I really like this book. I's peaceful, sad, simple and informative but leaves the reader with a sense of hope of better things to come. The full color painted illustrations are detailed to examine closely and relaxing to view from a distances. The sad story of community destruction by a dam is a story that is relevant for any child experiencing urban development in their community. The unique way the community developed in the first place is a story in itself. Certainly a picture book that a parent and child may want to turn to time after time. ( )

Quite dull, but the pictures are lovely. I cannot imagine what type of child will love this book.