Amazing Grace

 Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman

Illustrator: Caroline Binch

                  Publication: Scholastic

                  Date of Publication: September 2, 1991

                  ISBN #: 9780803710405

                  Pages: 32

                  Theme: Family, Multicultural, School

                  Format: Print, Picture Book, Fiction        

                  Age: 4+

Grace wants the lead role in the school play as Peter Pan. However, she is met with much doubt and uncertainty from her classmates because of her gender and skin color. With the support and wisdom of her mother and Nana, Grace learns that she can be anything she wants to be.

            This story takes place in the home of Grace, the main character as well as at her school      where she wants to play Peter Pan in the school play. A big dreamer and full of ambition, Grace wants to audition for the role of Peter Pan, but is told Peter is white and a boy. Determined to get the part, Grace auditions for the role after talking with her Nana about pursuing dreams and later the next day, everyone watches how fantastic Grace’s audition is and learns she finally gets the part.  

            This is a story about determination, confidence and not giving up. Grace a young black girl is surrounded by her classmates who all can’t wait to act in a production of Peter Pan.Grace is quick to audition, but is immediately brought down by her peers criticism, Peter Pan is white and a boy. Grace not understanding why she can’t play the part confides in her grandmother about what happened at school that day, her grandmother teaches her that she can be anything she wants to be, if she puts her mind to it regardless of sex and race. In the School Library Journal, a Milwaukee librarian reminds us that this story  “portrays a determined, talented child and her warm family enhance an excellent text and positive message of self affirmation.” Agreeing with this librarian, this is a great book that teaches an important lesson in a book that is targeted to a young audience.“Featuring colloquial dialogue and endearing characters, Hoffman's tale is truly inspiring.” (Publisher’s Weekly)  It’s a fantastic story that introduces the concept of confidence and determination, traits and qualities that we all need in lifeA great book to include in story times that focus on    dreams, confidence and introducing multicultural stories into a child’s reading list.

            Personal Response: Growing up, I absolutely loved reading Grace's story in both   Amazing Grace and Boundless Grace. An empowering story that highlights the strength, confidence and independence of an African American little girl, the story is an excellent example that teaches readers to follow your dreams no matter your obstacles. When she is confronted by her classmates, Grace is reminded by her    grandmother that she can be anything she wants as long as she dreams.  

(images via google)