One Green Apple- Eve Bunting (2006)

This book is about a young girl that is new to America. She is very shy and feels as if she doesn't fit in so she is hesitant to talk. By the end of the book she feels more confident and optimistic about finding a place among her peers. This book won the Arab American Book Award.

I really enjoyed this book. I think it is a realistic view on a student that feels like an outsider. This books seems to be more directed at younger students through the language used. Even though there is very little dialogue, it is easy to get to know the characters. I enjoyed the look inside of Farah's mind, and the text makes it easy to put yourself in her shoes and experience what is going on.You are able to feel the triumph Farah experiences by the end of the book when she realizes that what makes her different is what makes her special. The illustrations are also a great part of this book. The images are depicted realistically with very soft edges which I think helps enforce Farah's personality.

I could see using this book in my classroom in several ways. It would be a great tool to have if a new student from another culture transfers in. It would also be beneficial to share with students that are shy, hopefully giving them a character to identify with. Through out the story, Anna shows Farah a large amount of kindness. It would be good to share this story with students so they could model Anna's actions if they would like to connect with another student but are unsure how. An important aspect of this book is Farah realizing that what makes her different from the other students is what makes her special, and I think it is an important lesson to share with all students.