People

Spier, Peter. People. Copyright 1980, Random House.

In this encyclopedic picture book, Spier celebrates humankind in all its diversity-how we are similar and how we are different; that we dress in different ways, enjoy different things, have different personalities, live in different homes, speak (and write) different languages. We all keep different pets, celebrate different holidays and worship in different ways; that some of us excel at things others could never do, that there are more different ways of earning a living than you would believe.

Intended Readers: Ages 4-8

Discussions of differences can be greatly aided by children's books and it doesn't take an older child to begin discussions. The wealth of pictures discuss the uniqueness of people in terms of size, color, differing systems of taste and belief, and varying physical and mental abilities. This book can be a wonderful departure point for talking about all kinds of subjects from world peace to prejudice.

While incorportating this book in your classroom, students could research and discuss different countries and cultures. Giving them hands on activity is an effective way for them to learn and discover the world around them; they are sure not to forget this experience.