Smoky Night

Bunting, A. (1994). Smoky Night. New York, NY: Voyager Books.

Brief Annotation: A boy, his mom, and his cat experience the frightening L.A. Riots first-hand as they happen within their neighborhood. The boy and his mom witness and discuss the vandalism and looting that is happening right outside the apartment window. During a restless night of sleep, a fire is started in the apartment, and the family, after escaping, is forced to take shelter in a church with other families in the neighborhood. The boy’s cat, who was missing when the fire occurred, is soon returned by a kind firefighter, and is able to teach the neighbors a valuable lesson about acceptance, friendship and understanding during this difficult time.

Genre: Contemporary realistic fiction

Grade Level: 2-4

Readers who will like this: Readers who could benefit from reading a story about acceptance and embracing community and differences.

Response/Rating (1-4): 4. This story has colorful, attention grabbing pages, and a valuable message.

One question you would ask before a read aloud: Have you ever been in a situation where you felt scared or unsafe?