THE JOURNEY

The Journey

Written by: Sarah Stewart

Illustrated by: David Small

Berryville Graphics, 2001

32 pages

Multicultural

            I chose to read this book because of its unique qualities. Unlike most stories this one is told by letters and illustrations only. The story is about an Amish girl named Hannah who travels on a bus to the city for the first time. In each letter Hannah compares her experience to what it’s like at home and then signs her letter to my silent friend. For instance, Hannah compares the dresses at a clothing store to the ones in which her aunt makes for her. As the letters continue the reader is able to see how Hannah misses the simplicity of home even though she is mesmerized by the city.  

            The illustrations in this book are done, I believe, using pencils and watercolors. The text has been formally placed in order to appear as a letter. Under each letter, the illustrator drew Hannah as she is writing each letter. Besides the illustration of Hannah writing each letter, the illustrator adds to the story by showing the comparisons. Alongside the letters, the illustrator creates the image of what Hannah is seeing in the city. Then every other page is only illustrations and they create the image of what it is like for Hannah at home.

            The story has not won any awards, but it was created by an award winning team. I personally would recommend this story for student in about third or fourth grade. If used as a read aloud, one could use this story for comparing and contrasting the city life to the urban life. Also, one could talk about the life of the Amish people or one could use the letters for teaching grammar.