African-American, Asian-American, and Hispanic-American children describe their families' cultural traditions.

Two girls, one white, and one black, gradually get to know each other as they sit on the fence that divides their town.

Russ, a student with Down syndrome, is having a perfect day until he realizes that the five-dollar bill he has found probably belongs to a classmate.

A playground rap that introduces young readers to how people are different and yet the same.

Photo Album & Index cards
Blank tapes (tape recorder may be borrowed from the library)
12 Red Game Pieces & 12 White Game Pieces
Game Board
Journal
Feedback Form

Families may add a recipe to the ring!
Tiba Yoka/Baked Bananas (Africa)
Sweet Red Pepper Soup

t Think and talk about these questions with your family:
Do you think this story could happen in your town?
Why do you think Clover's mother told her not to climb over the fence?

t Pretend you are one of the characters in this story. Who would you be and how do you think you would feel? Talk about this with someone at home.

t Think and talk about these questions with your family:
Would you have made the same choice that Russ did?
Think of a time when you had to make a tough decision in your life.
What was it like?

t Draw a picture and/or write a story about your almost perfect day.

t Ask your family about your own personal family traditions.

t Try one of the recipes in the back of the book.

t Add a picture, or drawing, of your family to the family album included in the
bookbag. Use an index card to make a caption for the picture and include that on
your page as well.

t Try reading the book as a rap.

t If you have a tape recorder and blank tape at home, record your voice as you recite the rap. Then do it with a family member! (You may borrow a tape recorder from the library if you would like.)