Carolyn Marsden explores the complexities of cultural identity, drawing inspiration from her personal experience with her daughter facing prejudice. Through her lifelong dedication to writing, she delves into the challenges confronted by children within the diverse landscape of American society. Her work reveals a profound understanding of the child's perspective, sensitively portraying generational and cultural clashes. As both an educator and author, Marsden strives to foster empathy and understanding among young readers.
Set against the backdrop of impending change in her Mexican village, nine-year-old Rosalba grapples with the prophecy of the Mayan calendar predicting the world's end in 2012. As she dreams of an ancient Mayan boy undergoing a shamanistic ritual, she discovers a connection that reveals her potential to influence the future. The narrative intertwines themes of cultural heritage, destiny, and the power of belief as Rosalba navigates her unique journey.
Hopes of adoption test the friendship of two girls — one biracial — in a lyrical novel touching on themes of identity and the meaning of home.Pina and Susanna. Susanna and Pina. For as long as they’ve lived at the Istituto di Gesù Bambino — a home for babies abandoned after the War — they have been best friends. As children, they played rag dolls under the watchful eyes of the nuns and hide-and-seek among the lemon trees on the rooftop terrazzo overlooking Naples. But now strangers are coming to the chiesa, couples hoping to adopt children. Susanna thinks Pina — pale, pretty Pina with her gleaming yellow braid — will be adopted at once. Susanna, on the other hand, is a mulatta. Her father was an American soldier, a nero. No Italian has hair or skin like hers. But when a surprise visitor comes to the istituto just to see Susanna, will the friends be separated after all? Or will a miracle make both of their dreams come true?
Targeting early independent readers, this novel offers a rich exploration of Thailand's culture while emphasizing the importance of friendship. Through engaging storytelling, it provides valuable insights into the country, making it both informative and relatable for young readers.