13 copies

The small white child in this picture book feels alien when his family returns to America. He can't wait to go back to the warm African village where he ran free with his friends under a wide sky. . . . The joyful text and Cooper's boldly drawn, glowing oil-wash pictures evoke the intensely physical experience of a small child .

Peter was living in Africa when his parents told him they were moving back home to America. Peter did not understand because Africa was home to him. The book talks about how Peter calls two women mom, his tribal mother and his real mother, and how everyone calls him little brother. The book depicts the life Peter lives in Africa and his life in America. When Peter is living in America he doesn't like the food or wearing shoes but most of all he hates America because it is not Africa. One day his mother gives him a red hat to wear out in the cold, Peter instantly falls in love with the hat for the design on the hat reminds him of Africa. He then wears the hat and never takes it off. Finally the day comes when Peter is able to return to Africa and brings the hat with him until he arrives back in Africa. ( )

This book is about a young white boy that lives in Africa because of his fathers job. He loves it there because he is accustomed to all the things Africa has to offer, like the food, friends, animals, and sky. One day he must go back to America because his father has finished his job. They travel to America and each moment Peter misses home more and more. Finally, when they go back to Africa Peter is excited and it is like he never left.

Pete a white young boy who grew up in a village in Africa, moves to America because of his father’s job. He misses Africa. Even though his skin color made him different from other children in Africa, it did not matter. To fit in, Pete would leave his hat and his shoes at home just like other villagers. Now, he is in America and it is hard for Pete to adjust. He reminisces about the days in the warm sun playing sun up to sun down. Winter time makes him feel like a statue because he is cold and covered in thick clothes. He would plead with his mother to go back to Africa. Finally, his wish came true. His father got a job offer in Africa, and they returned. Pete is now happy, free, and reconciles with all of his village friends. The beautiful illustrations are done in deep colors and have a chalky texture. These pictures set the tone which reflects Pete’s emotional state. This book identifies with the student who adjusting to a new country after growing up somewhere else. It can also help other students learn about the cultural struggle that immigrants face such as language, friends, and even the little things like weather. Definitely, a must have for the classroom library. ( )