Customer Reviews

Selavi, That is Life: A Haitian Story of Hope

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a gracefully written, beautifully illustrated book that introduces young readers to a complex true story of hardship and resourcefulness, persecution and triumph. As a former teacher, I think it would also make a strong teaching tool to introduce the concept of human rights to young readers.

While the story has painful moments, the pages also contain joy, humor, and levity. The book does not condescend or oversimplify. It trains a keen child's eye, perceptive to all the colors of life, on the people and politics of Haiti.

The story, as you can read in the descriptions above, is an amazing and powerful one. The book itself could be filled with negativity, but it seems to barely flitter over the negative spots... what, exactly happened to Selavi's family? The upheaval and chaos of revolution and political instability is not mentioned directly, though a knowledgeable (not a young) reader would be able to recognize it. The young reader is able to recognize the central theme: We are all drops of water, but together we can create a mighty river. Teamwork and community are powerful forces against evil. The illustrations are beautiful and meaningful. I enjoyed reading the endnotes by Danticat, which helped fill in some of the gaps of the story.

Selavi: A Haitian Story of Hope is the story of a homeless child befriended by other street children living in Haiti, who all look out for one another sharing food and companionship. Together they find a caring community and a voice to create a radio station run by and for children. A true story with a positive message, that vividly presents the poignant difficulties street children face in daily life.

Many adults do not know the rich history of Haiti and so to have a book that can educate children as well as adults is great. Although, this book focuses on some of the sadder parts of Haiti's history it still shows the richness and strength of its people. For children, this book is a lesson in teamwork, collaboration, love, and pride.

I brought this book for my 7 year old daughter. As a Haitian parent, I want to educate my children about their heritage as much as possible. I found the book to be uplifting and inspiring. The book showed my daughter how lucky she was and how people, including children, can do anything they set their mind to. It also reminded me that there is still much work to be done.

Very well written. Great service and fast shipping. Thank you

this book made me cry. it is simply wonderful. everyone should read it. wonderful writing, brilliant illustrations. very touching story.

Now more the ever we need resources to help children understand Haiti. Unfortunately this book fails to bring forth the tremendous pain and suffering Haitian's experience nor the hope Haitian have in their heart. It reads as though pages are missing..the art is beautiful and the story has such great potential but it is a shame it is so flat

This book is a wonderful glimpse at life in Haiti, with much color and vibrancy...a great way to introduce the Haitian culture to children.