Smoky Nights, A Story About Strangers in the L.A. Riots, Caldecott Medal

Smoky Night, A Story About Strangers in the L.A. Riots, Caldecott Medal by Eve Bunting and Caldecott Illustrator David Diaz

The night of the L. A. Riots as seen through the eyes of a child allows students to see and understand the urban violence of a riot gone wild. Told in the first person by a boy who describes the fires, the smoke, and rare relationships between neighbors who come together in the face of danger and concern for their missing pets. In his innocence, he concludes that "Maybe they just didn't know each other."

The dramatic illustrations of Caldecott winner David Diaz describe best the senseless violence and destruction when everyone becomes a victim. David Diaz received the Caldecott Medal for his bold acrylic paint and photo-collage illustrations.

The Kids Wings activities by Suzy Red focus on helping students to understand the difference between civil disobedience and rioting as they show students how to change the laws with which they do not agree in peaceful ways, reminiscent of Martin Luther King, Jr. By understanding how laws are made, they will be educated on their part in making life better by building and not destroying. The activities include:

Through Different Eyes, Understanding Point of View and Voice

Explore with a Friend, Discussing the Deep Questions

Collage and Geometric Style, the art of David Diaz

A Senseless, Puzzling Disaster, An Interactive Projectable Crossword Puzzle

Choices and Consequences

City Government and Civil Dissent

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