Book of the Month for
February
February 7, 2006
Dear Faculty, Students and Parents:
February’s principal’s book of the month is Richard Wright and the Library Card
by William Miller. This Smithsonian Notable Children’s Book captures a young
African-American boy’s quest to read books in an era of American history where
African-Americans were not allowed to read the books in a library. His
resilience is an inspiring virtue that provides Richard an opportunity for
freedom in Chicago.
The book’s main character is Richard Wright. Richard loves words, hearing
stories and especially reading books. When Richard turned seventeen, he moved to
Memphis and began working for an optical company. With much trepidation, Richard
befriended Jim Falk, a white company worker, that he felt would understand his
desire to read books from the library. Jim’s decision to Richard’s request is
the turning point in the way one man’s life was forever changed.
After reading Richard Wright and the Library Card, think about a time when you
have trusted in someone to help you overcome an obstacle? How easy was it to
trust? What did you learn from this experience?
I hope that you enjoy Richard Wright and the Library Card as much as my kids and
I did. It was a great opportunity for me to explain how American society did not
always allow the opportunity for every child to read and learn. I hope that
everyone who reads this book realizes the opportunities that exist through
trust, hard work and determination.
Happy reading,
Phillip D. Page, Ed.D.
Principal
Garrett
Middle School
