La Composicion/ The Composition

Résumé

Gr 3-5-This book offers a poignant story set in an unnamed time and place. In it, a young boy is faced with the realities of living under a military dictatorship when a friendly officer visits his classroom and announces an essay competition about "What My Family Does at Night." Even though his parents have gone to great lengths to avoid exposing him to their political opinions, Pedro understands the danger of the situation. In the course of the child's everyday existence, he witnesses soldiers taking away his friend's father and, as he speaks with other classmates, realizes that this has become a common occurrence. The story ends as he shares his essay with his parents, and it becomes clear that Pedro knows more than he has been told and is aware of the need for secrecy. A powerful story supported by gorgeous illustrations.