Merritt, Tyler. A Door Made for Me. Illustrated by Lonnie Ollivierre. New York: Worthy Kids, 2022.
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This emotional and honest picture book explores a racist encounter from the perspective of a young Black boy, while offering a message of unconditional love and acceptance to soothe the pain of blind prejudice.In this story based on the author’s childhood, a young Black boy confronts his first experience of overt racism. In recounting the events to his grandfather, the young narrator asks: “How can she hate me when she doesn’t know me?” Grandpa offers wisdom and encouragement to the child, reminding him that another person’s hate does not change the fact that he is loved and that he matters. While offering an unflinching look at the emotional impact of the encounter, Tyler Merritt presents a message of love and acceptance that will resonate with young readers and offer a starting point for conversations about racial equality between parent or caregiver and child.
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My Review
A Door Made for Me addresses an issue that, unfortunately, some children have to face. It saddens me that this is a reality in some parts of the country.Tyler Merritt addresses the all too real situation of children (people) of color having doors closed on them just because of their color. No matter the skin tone of the reader/listener, they will empathize with Ty as he faces closed doors and rejection just because his skin is black.
Lonnie Ollivierre’s illustrations are beautiful and complement the text well. A Door Made for Me is a good candidate for a Mock Caldecott competition.
Tyler Merritt has written a great picture book that could become a favorite read aloud.
A Door Made for Me belongs in every K-12 school library. Children of all ethnic backgrounds need to be aware of what may happen to their friends who don’t look like them or even to them.
I received a complimentary copy of A Door Made for Me. This is my honest review.
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