Last Stop on Market Street
A boy asks why he has to take the bus, and his nana answers so well that the book won the Newbery.
Why they ask for it again
CJ asks the questions a real kid would ask, and Nana never scolds him for asking. Kids can hear the difference.
Our review
After church, CJ and his nana take the bus across town. He wants to know why they have no car, why they have to go there every week, why that man cannot see. She answers each question with something he had not thought of, until, at the last stop, you find out where they have been going.
It is rare to find a picture book that talks about money and class without any preaching. Christian Robinson's collage city is full of warmth, and the writing has a real musical swing to it. Save the ending, and let your child find out for themselves what is at the last stop.
How to read it aloud
Give Nana a slow, amused warmth, and do not rush her replies. When the guitar starts up on the bus, slow right down and close your eyes, just as CJ does.
The catch
It is a quieter, thinking read. It tends to work best if your child is awake enough to ask questions.
Is it scary?
Nothing frightening. It gently touches on being poor and on homelessness, and invites conversation.
Books like Last Stop on Market Street, and what to read next
Frog and Toad Are FriendsThe same warm, quiet friendship, and their first stories to read alone.
The Rabbit ListenedAnother book with a wise, patient presence at its centre.
Charlotte's WebA longer, richer story about what care for others looks like.
Quick answers
What age is Last Stop on Market Street for?
Ages 3–8. The sweet spot, in our opinion, is age 4 to 7.
How long does Last Stop on Market Street take to read aloud?
About 8 minutes at a calm bedtime pace, by our estimate. Allow longer if you do the voices.
Is Last Stop on Market Street scary?
Nothing frightening. It gently touches on being poor and on homelessness, and invites conversation.
What should we read after Last Stop on Market Street?
We would suggest Frog and Toad Are Friends, The Rabbit Listened, Charlotte's Web.