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Separate is Never Equal

Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation

Separate Is Never Equal is a powerful picture book telling the true story of Sylvia Mendez and her family’s experience in California segregated schools almost ten years before the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The Mendez family led local organizing efforts that improved education outcomes for all students. Their story encourages us to believe in the potential of all kids. To encourage conversation with children about the book’s themes, our team is including this bilingual reading discussion guide with your order.

Author: Duncan Tonatiuh
Year of Publishing: 2014
Number of Pages: 40

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Reviews

  1. claplaca (verified owner)

    Wonderful!

  2. nunnj (verified owner)

    So excited to utilize this book in the classroom! Thank you!

  3. cynthiaalyssag (verified owner)

    This is a great story full of rich culture that kids need to hear. Love it!

  4. Ellen Balkovec (verified owner)

    so excited for this book, thank you

  5. cduarte (verified owner)

    Such a great book with a great message!

  6. stokesfolks (verified owner)

    This is a beautiful, high-quality book. I enjoyed the unusual style of art which combined collage and digital painting. Although I grew up in the same area as Sylvia, I never heard anything about this historical event. It was very educational.

  7. Nicole Owens (verified owner)

    For a child’s book, it requires a longer attention span as it’s fairly long story. Overall, message is beautiful and important!

  8. MCalvert123 (verified owner)

    Through compelling illustrations and accessible language, the book highlights the courage and perseverance of a family in the face of injustice.

  9. Heather Duering (verified owner)

    A beautiful book, Duncan Tonathiuh never disappoints. Can’t wait to use the discussion guide in my classroom!

  10. Lindseyloo (verified owner)

    Dutch s good quality book and the art was great! Long story but great message!!

  11. Kodabearbaby (verified owner)

    very good book

  12. kitoread (verified owner)

    Great way to tell such a powerful story to the younger population.

  13. sueone (verified owner)

    Beautiful book, excellent read for all not just children

  14. Cece Martin (verified owner)

    Great read! My almost 7 year old could understand it and it sparked a great conversation

  15. tahermarpe (verified owner)

    This was a powerful book to read to my child. I liked that it showed the Hispanic struggle that this culture faces and how they are a strong nation.

  16. stormiautumn (verified owner)

    I was not able to finish the book. I hope that it provided an opportunity for learning and growth but the first couple of pages made me so uncomfortable that I chose not to read further.

  17. eweber23 (verified owner)

    Such an incredible book. I really like how the author approached and made it very relatable with the images and content for all students.

  18. alyssakornbrath (verified owner)

    Great book for elementary age kids

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