Crenshaw

Applegate, K. (2015). Crenshaw. Harrisburg, VA. Feiwel and Friends.

In Crenshaw, the readers are introduced to Jackson and rather extraordinary cat, Crenshaw. The relationship soon become evident that the cat is Jackson's imaginary friend. The reason why Jackson's friend has appeared now is evident to the reader but not to Jackson. His family is going through a very tough time and Jackson feels like he has to be strong for everyone else but never is honest with himself or others around him. 

The news reports on unemployment and homeless numbers and some specialized shows focus on the adults who have lost their jobs and homes, but there are few reports on how children are affected.  As teachers we have to teach students regardless of what their home life is like. This novel is a reminder of what some of our students have on their plate. They are suffering though tough times to and the one constant in their life is usually school. They may switch school frequently, a fear of the character in this book, but they are usually always enrolled in one eventually. 

This is good book for upper elementary students. This novel could lead to classroom discussions on how to open up and express their feelings.  Teachers and counselors could use to teach compassion and build empathy in students.