Module 5 - Goin' Someplace Special

Goin' Someplace Special, by Patricia McKissack

Summary

'Trisha Ann is excited to be going Someplace Special.  She convinces her grandmother to let her go alone for the first time.  'Trisha Ann travels through racially segregated Nashville and experiences racism without her grandmother to help her.  She is saddened, but Blooming Mary helps her believe that her grandmother is with her and gives her the confidence to continue on to Someplace Special.  She finally arrives at the Public Library, where there is no segregation and everyone is welcome.

McKissack, P., & Pinkney, J. (2001). Goin' someplace special. New York: Antheneum Books for Young Readers.

My Impression

This is an excellent book for younger students to experience what it must have been like for a young black girl to live with racism and segregation.  With each experience she has with segregation and racist attitudes, her joy is dimmed just a bit.  When she is at her lowest and wants to give up she is reminded of the strength that her grandmother gives her, even when she is not there. The illustrations are lovely and enhance the story; they help show 'Trisha Ann's joy amidst her circumstances.

Reviews

In an eye-opening journey, McKissack takes the child through an experience based upon her own personal history and the multiple indignities of the period  She experiences a city bus ride and segregated parks, restaurants, hotels, and theaters and travels toward "Someplace Special."  In the end, readers see that 'Trisha Ann's destination is the integrated public library, a haven for all in a historical era of courage and change.

Elam, M. (2001). Goin' someplace special. School Library Journal, 47(9), 199-199. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/211703144?accountid=7113

There are many books about a child's first trip alone, and many books about racism and the struggle for civil rights, but this book is about more than either: it is the story of a child facing a difficult time sustained by the support of the adults in her life.  McKissack and Pinkney strike just the right balance in a picture book for your readers and listeners: informative without being preachy; hopeful without being sentimental.

Smith, R. (2001). Goin' someplace special. The Horn Book Magazine, 77(6), 736-737. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/199261900?accountid=7113

Suggestions for Use in Library

• During Black History Month - prior to reading the book, discuss with students what life might have been like before Civil Rights.
• DIscuss how each time 'Trisha Ann faces a problem she encounters a problem she is encouraged by someone.
• Discuss Human Rights.  What rights should ALL humans have?