Last Stop on Market Street facts for kids
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| Author | Matt de la Peña |
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| Illustrator | Christian Robinson |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's |
| Publisher | Penguin Books |
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Publication date
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2015 |
| Pages | 32 pp |
Last Stop on Market Street is a heartwarming children's book from 2015. It was written by American author Matt de la Peña and beautifully illustrated by Christian Robinson. This book won some really important awards, like the 2016 Newbery Medal, a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and a Caldecott Honor. The story is about a young boy named CJ. He learns to see the good and beautiful things in his everyday life, especially during a bus ride with his grandmother.
The Story of CJ and Nana
The book begins with a young boy named CJ and his grandmother, Nana. They are leaving church during a rainstorm. As they walk to the bus stop, CJ wonders why they have to walk in the rain. Nana wisely tells him that even trees need water.
At the bus stop, CJ sees his friend, Colby, riding home in a car with his dad. CJ asks Nana why they don't have a car. Nana helps him see the good side of their situation. She points out that they get to see the city in a different way.
When the bus arrives, CJ and Nana find seats. During the ride, they meet many different people. CJ notices a man who cannot see. He also sees two boys listening to music on their iPods. Then, a man starts playing a song on his guitar. This music makes CJ feel a true sense of beauty.
The bus ride helps CJ understand that there is beauty everywhere. He learns to appreciate the small, everyday moments. The book ends with CJ and Nana working at a soup kitchen. This shows how they help others in their community.
Why This Book is Special
Last Stop on Market Street has received many important awards. These awards show how much people love and respect the book.
- It won the 2016 Newbery Medal. This award is given to the author of the most outstanding American children's book.
- It was named a 2016 Caldecott Honor Book. This award recognizes the most distinguished American picture book for children.
- The illustrator, Christian Robinson, received a 2016 Coretta Scott King Honor Book award. This honor is for African American authors and illustrators of children's books.
- It was also a 2016 Charlotte Zolotow Award Honor Book.
- The New York Times Book Review called it a Notable Children's Book of 2015.
- The Wall Street Journal listed it as a Best Children's Book of 2015.
