Milo's field trip to the museum is an eye-opening one. She learns about museum curators and docents, but doesn't see herself or her culture reflected in the exhibits. Perplexed, she takes a suggestion from her aunt to create her own museum with artifacts of her family's history. Milo opens a local museum and inspires her community to participate too. Use this book to engage elementary-aged students in representing their cultures and family histories.

On a school field trip, Milo visits a museum with her grandfather. Her grandfather tells her, "Museums hold all the things that people feel are valuable or important." However, MIlo is disappointed and confused about why she didn't find herself, her family or African American history represented at the museum. After her visit, MIilo decides to talk with several family members to discover what their most valuable items are. Then she decides to take matters into her own hands to create her own exhibit of important and valuable items. Soon everyone wants to contribute to "The People's Museum" to make it a "mirror" for the whole community.

Critical Analysis: Children need books that offer mirrors, windows, and sliding doors. It is essential that children find themselves represented in literature and in the world to develop a healthy self-concept. This story can be a discussion starter about racism, representation, and activism. It can also be used to involve children in critical thinking and answering higher-level questions. Additionally, it supports children's social and moral development and encourages children to make a difference.

Favorite quote: "So, what are you going to do about it?" ( )

"Milo is excited about her class trip to the museum. The docent leads them on a tour and afterward Milo has time to look around on her own. But something doesn’t feel right, and Milo gradually realizes that the people from her community are missing from the museum. When her aunt urges her to find a solution, Milo takes matters into her own hands and opens her own museum!" www.amazon.com

This story helps children understand that there is a time when you get what you want and there are times you get what you want. ( )

A little black girl does not find her reality reflected in the museum her class visits and decides to create her own museum, with artifacts that are important to her.