The Day You Begin (2018)

by Jacqueline Woodson; illustrated by Rafael López

About the Book

Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical text and Rafael López’s dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.

Type of text: Realistic fiction; narrative; lyrical picturebook

About the Creators

Jacqueline Woodson is an award-winning Black American writer, parent, poet, and MacArthur Fellow. She is also a former “skinny girl in the back of the classroom who was always getting into trouble for talking or missed homework assignments.”

Rafael López (he/him/él) is an artist and award-winning Latinx illustrator, father, and muralist who empowers communities to turn blank walls into stories. Originally from Mexico, he is inspired by the rich visual heritage, music and surrealism of his native culture.


Note: These descriptions include self-identifiers provided directly by the author, illustrator, and/or publisher via email; they also contain information made publicly available (e.g., through professional websites, interviews, etc)

Recommended Grade Levels

Grades K-5

Themes

Friendship; individuality; newcomer experience

Languages

In the book: English
Translations available: Spanish; French; Dutch; Swedish; Chinese

Character Representations (Text & Images)

Asian (East, South, Central), Black, Latinx

Curriculum Connections

Language arts; social studies; social emotional learning

Book Details

ISBN: 802852963
ISBN-13: 978-0802852960

Publisher: Penguin Random House

Select awards: Jane Addams Peace Association; 2019 Winner Book for Younger Children; 2019 Floyd’s Pick Book Award Winner

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Teaching Resources

Teacher’s Guide