Amazing Grace
By Mary Hoffman
The Story
A girl who loves acting out every story she hears sets her heart on playing Peter Pan in the school play, then hears a classmate say she can't — because she's a girl, and because she's Black.
Why It's Special
For the kid who turns every living room into a stage, Amazing Grace is proof that the biggest role is always the one you cast yourself in.
- Big idea: You don't have to fit anyone else's idea of who gets to play the hero.
- Vibes: Warm, spirited, and quietly triumphant.
Perfect For Kids Who
- love to act out stories and play pretend
- are working through being told what they can't do
- respond well to quiet encouragement from family
- enjoy stories about determination and self-belief
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What did Grace do after her classmate said she couldn't play Peter Pan?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Grace felt when she heard she couldn't have the part?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever told you that you couldn't do something you really wanted to do?
- Imagination: If you could play any character in a story, who would you choose to be?
- Character: What does Grace's love of stories tell you about who she is?
