Grade: 2-3
The story follows CJ, a young boy, and his grandmother, Nana, as they ride a city bus after church. As they travel through their urban neighborhood, CJ asks Nana a series of questions, expressing frustration about what he feels they lack compared to others. Nana, with wisdom and warmth, encourages CJ to see the world differently

Summary: This story is about gratitude and seeing beauty in everyday moments, which makes it a powerful teaching tool. It helps children think about the importance of appreciating what they have and valuing their community. The book’s relatable characters and realistic setting allow children to connect to its message. Adding it to the classroom can spark discussions about helping others, finding joy in simple things, and understanding different perspectives.
Comments: It's fascinating to think about how you view something can be completely different then how someone else is perceiving the same situation. The little boy in this book is seeing things in a more negative outlook, and he is surprised to learn that the way his grandma is perceiving what is going on around them much different. She is seeing the positives all around her and she talks about it with her grandson, changing his perception on the things going on around him, making it easier for him to see the light in each situation. This story’s emphasis on gratitude and seeing beauty in everyday moments makes it a powerful teaching tool. It helps children think about the importance of appreciating what they have and valuing their community. The book’s relatable characters and realistic setting allow children to connect to its message. Adding this story to the classroom can spark discussions about helping others, finding joy in simple things, and understanding different perspectives. ( )

Last Stop on Market Street follows a young boy named CJ and his grandmother, Nana, as they travel through the streets of their urban neighborhood on a bus ride. Along the way, they witness the beauty in their diverse community, exploring themes of inequality, social class, and the importance of finding beauty in everyday life. The story's vibrant illustrations by Christian Robinson complement its message, highlighting the rich cultural diversity of the community. The bilingual edition ensures that both English and Spanish-speaking students can engage with the story, making it an inclusive and accessible choice for various audiences.

This book can be used with elementary students and can be used to promote discussions about community, diversity, and social values. It connects well with TEKS like ELA.1.8 (identifying themes and characters) and SOC.1.8 (discussing the diversity of communities). It is also a great tool for engaging students in bilingual reading experiences, helping them explore their own cultural identities while learning the value of empathy and inclusion. ( )

Nana does a really good job in making sure CJ is beginning to become completely understanding and appreciative. Not only about riding the bus but when they encountered a blind man and CJ questioned with curiosity, Nana said "some people watch the world with their ears'. ( )

Lexile AD610L (Grades K-3)
Newbery Medal (2016); Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor; Caldecott Honor