The Junkyard Wonders
By Patricia Polacco
The Story
A girl dreads joining the special education class at her new school, nicknamed the junkyard, until her teacher Mrs. Peterson helps her see her odd, brilliant classmates for who they really are.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's ever felt labeled or left out, this is a story about the teacher who looks past the label to the person underneath.
- Big idea: Genius wears many disguises, and the right teacher can help a child see their own worth.
- Vibes: Tender, autobiographical, quietly triumphant.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on seeing past labels and first impressions
- respond well to stories about a teacher who believes in them
- are navigating starting at a new school
- love stories grounded in real childhood experiences
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Trisha felt when she learned her class was called the junkyard?
- Story & problem-solving: What did Mrs. Peterson do to help Trisha see her classmates differently?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever judged someone before really getting to know them?
- Imagination: What do you think made each of the junkyard kids a 'wonder'?
- Kindness & reflection: What is one way you could make a new classmate feel welcome?
