I Have the Right to Culture

Gr 2-4–The latest book from the creators of I Have a Right to Be a Child focuses on the importance of art and culture in a child’s life. Originally published in French, this entry draws inspiration from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The book reads like a manifesto on the necessity of culture in a child’s life. It begins with the child who narrates the book being immersed in their own culture, leading to natural curiosity about other children in the world. The story then veers into the importance of art, dance, and music; the narrator meets and talks with artists and poets. Then they daydream about what a perfect world would be like if every child had access to culture. By the end, it will feel as if readers have read a lengthy pamphlet on the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child. There is a lot packed in this book, and kids will have a hard time figuring out the main point or focus of the story. The bright and vibrant artwork with intricate designs on every page enhances the surreal, dreamlike feel. There are meadows of boldly colored flowers and intricate circus performers that readers will enjoy exploring.