Susan Lynn Meyer

Skating With the Statue of Liberty

SKATING WITH THE STATUE OF LIBERTY continues the story of Gustave’s experiences as he arrives in America in 1942!

New York City, 1942: In this companion volume to BLACK RADISHES, Gustave and his family have escaped Nazi-occupied France. But when Gustave befriends September Rose, who is African American, he gets a rude awakening: discrimination exists in America, too.

Winner of the Julia Ward Howe Honor Award

A Junior Library Guild Selection

A Sydney Taylor Notable Book

A Massachusetts Book Award “Must-Read” Book

A Bank Street College of Education Best Book

 

ESPECIALLY FOR TEACHERS:

Your students can read background about the novel in my blog posts, here:

For Readers of Skating with the Statue of Liberty

A detailed teacher’s guide can be downloaded by clicking here:

http://www.curiouscitydpw.com/download/12068/

 



Critics’ Praise:

I love everything about this poignant story, especially the gorgeous prose, which brings to life such an important slice of American history in a way I haven’t seen before.  Simply put, this heartfelt book is a masterpiece.” —Shana Burg, Author of A Thousand Never Evers and Laugh with the Moon

This rich story reminds us that America can be at its best as a melting pot.  A page turner for all the right reasons.” —Vince Vawter, Newbery Honor winning author of Paperboy

Based on memories from the author’s father, the story rings true as Gustave starts school at the Joan of Arc Junior High in New York City. . . . Despite the heavy topics covered, the everyday details of the story guide readers, allowing them to enjoy following Gustave’s entry into the United States and his growth toward appreciating all that’s ahead for him in his new home. Meyer doesn’t try to pretty up Gustave’s experience, lending this work a strong note of authenticity.“—School Library Journal

Readers may gradually start to think of the characters as close friends. The later chapters of the book involve real danger. Gustave and his best friend, a black girl, are caught in the middle of a riot. And by then, the conflict might feel like it’s happening to people the readers have always known. A sweet book that readers will find sneaks up on them. (Historical fiction. 9-12)” —Kirkus