Don't Say Ain't

Rating:
Summary: A CANDID, AFFIRMING STORY
Review: School is a subject that is familiar to most children. And, attending a school outside of one's neighborhood is a subject that is becoming more and more familiar to youngsters today. At times, that situation presents adjustments and even problems. Such is the spot young Dana finds herself in.

Our story is set in Harlem in the 1950s. Dana loves her neighborhood, and her friends. But, when she scores in a high percentile on a citywide test she is sent to a newly integrated advanced school. What a change!

Some of the students at the new school are less than accepting, and even her teacher comments on Dana's language usage, saying, "Do not use 'ain't' in school." When Dana attempts to change the way she talks then her old friends in the neighborhood withdraw wondering if Dana now thinks she is better than they are.

It's a challenge for Dana to find her place in two very different worlds, both of which are changing.

There are good lessons for all in this candid, affirming story illustrated with colorful oil paintings.

- Gail Cooke