Librarian on the Roof by M.G. King sounds like a silly title, except it's based on a true story. There aren't many nonfiction books for children that cover librarians. King's book recounts the heroic efforts of a single librarian to draw attention and raise well needed funds for her library (and her patrons).RoseAleta Laurell was newly hired at the Dr. Eugene Clark library in Lockart, Texas and wanted to bring this underused library into the 21st century. When she couldn't get the support she needed she decided to spent time on the roof as a protest to raise money for the children's library.Stephen Gilpin's exaggerated illustrations bring a sense of humor to this book, making RoseAleta seem larger than life. His drawings are vibrant and cartoony, like something seen in a middle grade graphic novel. They have the same energy that RoseAleta must have had to pull off her protest.At the back of the book there's a photograph of the real RoseAleta on the roof with a brief explanation of her protest. There's also a summary of the reasons behind writing her story as a children's book. A wonderful TRUE story about a librarian who looks beyond budget cuts and DOES something to enact change.I had the pleasure of meeting RoseAleta Laurell and she is even more spirited and dedicated to books and libraries as she is portrayed in the book.This is a stirring tale that not only espouses the importance of libraries, but also teaches children that change does not come about sitting on your tush and complaining -- sometimes it takes camping out on a roof!Great writing by King and engaging illustrations.This should be on every child's bookshelf!
Good story a true story to stand up for what you believe in and that is what this librarian did!
—Yagami
A bit long, but I liked it.AR 3.6
—sweetypie121
A great story, obviously.
—brianuuhh
Very inspiring.
—chane
wonderful book
—kahlil
