One of the Problems of Everett Anderson ANNOTATION
Everett Anderson wonders how he can help his friend Greg, who appears to be a victim of child abuse.
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Everett Anderson doesn't know what to do when his friend Greg comes to school with bruises, or when Greg cries and can't explain what's wrong. Should Everett tell the teacher, or would that only make things worse for Greg? Everett's sister thinks maybe it's none of their business, but he can't stop worrying about his friend. Then, when Everett Anderson tells his mother, he opens a window of possibility.
This tender story perfectly evokes the confusion, concern--and eventual hope--one little boy feels in the face of a very difficult problem.
FROM THE CRITICS
Publishers Weekly
One of the Problems of Everett Anderson, the eighth by Lucille Clifton, illus. by Ann Grifalconi, gently and sensitively addresses the issue of child abuse. After Everett notices bruises and scars on his new friend, Greg, he doesn't know what to do. "I could tell the teacher," he says. "[But] I don't want to make it bad for Greg or for his mom and dad." Finally, Everett tells his mother, who helps Everett "to understand that one of the things he can do right now is listen to Greg and hug and hold his friend." Grifalconi's muted illustrations poignantly evoke the fear and uncertainty of the situation. An excellent choice for opening up a challenging conversation. (Sept.) Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
Children's Literature
Everett worries about his friend Greg, who seems to have scars and bruises, and to cry without being able to tell why. Everett wonders whether it is any of his business, but finally tells his mother, hoping she can help, and that he can make a difference. This simple, rhyming story ends with Everett's caring concern, an informative reassurance for other worried and caring kids. Grifalconi reinforces the low-key moodiness of the text by filling ten double pages with softly toned pastel scenes which focus on the friends. The barest of solid-colored, ambiguous backgrounds emphasize the expressive faces and gestures, which tell more than the words. 2001, Henry Holt, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer:Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
Parent Council Reviews
Children may be confused and upset when their friends experience physical abuse, but they often don't know what to do with their knowledge. In this story, a young boy suspects that his best friend is being hurt by his mother. He notices bruises and sees how sad his friend appears. When he finally tells his own mother about his concerns, she advises him to be supportive and to tell her if something else happens to his friend. The illustrations in this book are soft, warm chalk drawings that add a comforting visual texture to the story. Teachers and counselors might want to include this book in instructional units about personal safety. 2001, Henry Holt and Company, $16.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: S. Latson SOURCE: Parent Council, September 2001 (Vol. 9, No. 1)
School Library Journal
K-Gr 3-Everett's new friend Greg comes to school every day with fresh bruises and a sad, sad face, "like he was lost in the loneliest place." Everett wants desperately to help him but has no idea what he can do or say. When he shares his concern with his mother, she explains that sometimes just being there for his friend and listening to him are what he can do best. The text, written in rhyme, is enhanced by sensitive, full-page color illustrations that express the emotions dealt with, ranging from confusion, worry, and sadness to eventual hope. This is a gentle depiction of a troubled young victim of child abuse and his understanding friend. Useful as bibliotherapy and for opening class discussion about this topic.-Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
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