Peter and the Amulet

Okay, so it’s 1953 in St. Louis and I’ve just come here from Willow, Idaho (I know…you never heard of it) and I’m about as in with the other kids here at Dewey School as a pin in a balloon factory. Nobody likes me. I mean except my mom and dad and my little sister, Ronette (I know…a weird name). But who would like a hick from Idaho with stick-out ears and is the shortest kid in his 7th grade class and who doesn’t think people should be down on Negroes and Jews and short kids from Idaho with stick out ears and I’m not exactly the Einstein of 7th graders in the world either, but… Well, you get the picture.

So, what does Nava Silbertasch, a Jewish girl in my class who decides to like me, and Joshua Josephson, a really cool Negro who gives me a mysterious amulet that he says will change my life, have to do with my story? Well, you’ll have to read Peter and the Amulet to find out.

HINT: You’ll be surprised!

Peter and the Amulet is a unique and significant addition to children’s literature. It is a not often addressed historical look at a post-World War II segregated city in the1950s from the standpoint of a young boy. But it is also a meaningful and impacting encounter with finding oneself through overpowering experiences, including feelings of inferiority, bullying, racism, and even death.

What reviewers have said:
“So many layers to this story. Readers of all ages will enjoy and be edified by its simple but profound message of love, friendship, determination, kindness, forgiveness, and compassion.”
"The writing is outstanding!"
"A deeply moving experience for me."
"I laughed. I cried. I was inspired."

Inside out

Loved the real story of a boy growing into a man. Not a fan of the virtual narrative