Bibliographic Information Title: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Author: Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault Illustrator: Lois Ehlert Publication Date: 1989 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division Title: Amazing Grace Author: Mary Hoffman Illustrator: Caroline Binch Publication Date: 1991 Publisher: Scholastic Inc. Summary In this book each letter of the alphabet racing against each other to reach the top of a coconut tree.   The tree cannot support all the letters so they all fall off.  The remainder of the story, in rhyme, is about what happens to the letters after that. This story is about an African American child named Grace.  Grace enjoys reading books and acting out the characters featured in the books.  When there is an opportunity to participate in a class performance of Peter Pan, Grace hopes to play the part  of Peter Pan but other students discourage this because she is black and female.  Grace's family encourages her to try out for the part of Peter Pan anyway so she does and  gets the part.  This book introduces students to the negative aspects of racism and sexism and suggests that people can accomplish anything if they are not held back by narrow minded people. Recommendations for Parents This book's colorful illustrations and rhyming words capture children's interest and teach them the letters of the alphabet.  It is the ultimate read aloud book. This book encourages students to follow their dreams and try something challenging even if others tell them it can't be done.  The story also encourages children to treat others equally, regardless of what they look like or what gender they are. Recommendation for Other Teachers Children will enthusiastically repeat the "boom boom" refrain and learn to recognize the letters of the alphabet that are featured in this colorful book.  This is a book that will capture childrens' interest sufficiently such that they won't misbehave and distract others during the readaloud period.. If there are a few minority students in your class, this is a great way to make them feel welcome.  It is also an excellent reminder to all the students that everyone is created equal and that no one deserves to be treated badly because of who they are. Personal Note An entertaining, educational and stimulating book that is the perfect length. This is an inspirational story with a simple but basic message: people are the same inside, and shouldn't be judged by the way they look or limited because of their gender.