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Children's Fiction Diversity & Multicultural

A Small History of a Disagreement

by (author) Claudio Fuentes

translated by Elisa Amado

illustrated by Gabriela Lyon

Publisher
Greystone Books Ltd
Initial publish date
Oct 2020
Category
Diversity & Multicultural, General, Friendship, Politics & Government
Recommended Age
7 to 12
Recommended Grade
2 to 7
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9781771647076
    Publish Date
    Oct 2020
    List Price
    $24.95

Classroom Resources

Download Teacher’s Guide

Where to buy it

Description

A lively introduction to voting, democracy, and activism for kids.

“The message of this book, which focuses on a student body’s divided opinion about an issue vital to its future, is that disagreements can lead to fruitful discussion, better understanding and great ideas.” —New York Times

Should an ancient monkey puzzle tree be cut down to make room for exciting new classrooms? In this spirited picture book, students must work together to come to an agreement—but it’s not as easy as it seems!

On the first day back at school after the holidays, a group of classmates notice a construction crane parked next to the old monkey puzzle tree. The school principal says the tree will be cut down to make room for new science classrooms and computer labs. The classmates are divided, with some in favor of innovation, and others calling for the protection of the thousand-year-old tree. As they protest, march, fight, and strike, one teacher offers a solution: Why not hold a debate? The principal agrees, and at the end of the debate, a student vote will end the disagreement, once and for all—or will it?

Inspirational without being didactic, and filled with warm, lively illustrations, this wonderful introduction to the process of debate, listening, and collective decision-making will be read by young and old alike for years to come.

A refreshing and timely reminder that disagreement can—and should—be productive.” —Kirkus

An Aldana Libros Book, Greystone Kids

About the authors

Contributor Notes

CLAUDIO FUENTES holds a PhD in political science from the University of North Carolina. He is the author of numerous books and articles on issues concerning democratization, security, and international relations.He lives in Santiago, Chile.

GABRIELA LYON is a children’s book illustrator, author, and teacher of drawing at Finis Terrae University in Santiago de Chile.

Editorial Reviews

“The message of this book, which focuses on a student body’s divided opinion about an issue vital to its future, is that disagreements can lead to fruitful discussion, better understanding and great ideas.”
New York Times

“An accomplished picture book that speaks volumes about conservation, activism and the power of the election process.
Shelf Awareness

“A Small History of Disagreement lays the foundation for civil discourse, effective campaigning and how to work together despite having differing opinions.”
PBS

“A refreshing and timely reminder that disagreement can—and should—be productive.”
Kirkus

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