A Shelter in Our Car

by Monica Gunning
A Shelter in Our Car cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Children's Fiction
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  • ID: 7505
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9780892391899
  • Publisher: Children's Book Press (CA)
  • Published: 2004-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

After the loss of her father, Zettie and her mother move from Jamaica to the United States, only to find themselves living in their car due to financial struggles. Despite their hardships, the mother's love and strength inspire Zettie to face each day with courage. The story is brought to life with authentic illustrations that capture the emotional depth of their journey. /n/n Monica Gunning's moving narrative sheds light on the often overlooked issue of homelessness in urban America, while Elaine Pedlar's illustrations add a layer of warmth and hope to the tale. This book is a testament to the power of family and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Reviews
Ensemble Therapy · 2021-12-03
Poignant 4.25

The book shares a poignant story of a mother and daughter's journey from Jamaica to the United States, highlighting the challenges of homelessness. It's a critical literacy resource that provides insight into the realities of urban homelessness.

This book is a poignant exploration of the challenges faced by immigrants and the homeless. The story of Zettie and her mom is not just a narrative but a critical literacy resource that provides insight into the realities of urban homelessness. It's a book that invites readers to empathize with the characters and understand the complexities of their situation. The book's strength lies in its ability to make the abstract concept of homelessness tangible and relatable. It's a powerful tool for sparking discussions about social issues and the importance of empathy.

Quick quotes

    A Shelter in Our Car shares the story of Zettie and her mom who leave Jamaica to come to the United States.

    This book shows the reader the realities of what it's like to be homeless in an urban city.

    Living out of a car is not a pleasant way to live.

Reading Authors Blog · 2015-01-26
Powerful 4.00

This book, though fictional, draws from real-life experiences of homelessness, offering a poignant perspective on a harsh reality. It serves as a powerful tool for raising awareness about social issues.

This book is a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by many, including children, who find themselves homeless. The story, though fictional, is deeply rooted in real-life experiences, making it a poignant read. It's not just a story but a window into the lives of those who struggle to find shelter and dignity in an urban landscape. The book's power lies in its ability to humanize the issue of homelessness, making it relatable and urgent. It's a must-read for those who want to understand the depth of social issues from a child's point of view.

Quick quotes

    This book although fictional, is also not so fictional.

    There are thousands of people that are homeless today including many of them children.

    It is a powerful tool for raising awareness about social issues.

Lee and Low Books · 2014-05-01
Heart-wrenching 4.50

The story is heart-wrenching and eye-opening, shedding light on the indignities faced by the homeless. The illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, enhancing the emotional impact.

This book is a heart-wrenching tale that opens our eyes to the often-overlooked struggles of homelessness. The story is not just about a family's journey but a mirror held up to society, reflecting the indignities and hardships faced by those without a home. The illustrations are a crucial part of the narrative, adding depth and emotion to the text. They bring the story to life, making it even more impactful and memorable. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    The story is heart-wrenching and an eye opener to maybe those that do not have to live a life of indignities.

    The illustrations are done with such care and attention to detail.

    It's a story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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