Ruby's Wish By Shirin Yim Bridges

 

About Book

Title: Ruby's Wish

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Sophie Blackall

Genre: Historical Fiction 

Major Book Awards: No major book awards 

Recommended Age Range: 4-8 

Appropriate Grade Levels: Kinder to 4th grade

Summary

This book written by Shirin Bridges is based on a true story, inspired by her grandmother named Ruby. The story starts off by taking place in old China, a very long time ago. A little girl named Ruby came from a big family, because her wealthy grandfather had many wives and his wives had many children, and therefore he had lots of grandchildren. Because Ruby and her cousins came from such a huge family, they were able to be educated at home with a teacher. This was unusual, since girls at the time were never taught to read or write. On top of learning in school, the girls had to learn how to cook and keep house as well. Because they had so much to do, many of them decided to stop coming to class, but that wasn't the case for Ruby. She was an outstanding student. One day during class, all the kids had the opportunity to write a poem. Ruby decided to write a poem on how girls are treated differently.  Her grandfather came across her poem and asked her why she felt this way. She explained that the boys would be able to continue their education in college, while the girls had to be married. Her grandfather thanked her for speaking with him. Later on, when Chinese New Year came, Ruby was surprised with a red envelope from her grandfather. Inside it was not money, but instead an acceptance letter to a college, inviting her to be their first female student. 

Evaluation - Would I incorporate this book in the classroom?

This book was a pretty interesting and unique read, as I've never read a book that takes place in old China. Looking at the title and reading a little bit of the book, I thought this book was only going to talk about the history and cultures of China, but it was so much more than that. It incorporated China's history as well as the gender issues in society. I do see myself using this book in the classroom for a quick read aloud and lesson for kindergarten to 4th grade. It does a great job in teaching Chinese culture and social issues, so it's easy to incorporate it whenever in the school year. Something that students can do is compare and contrast how boys and girls are treated throughout the story. This book also teaches writing, comprehension, and grammar as well. To go off of the academic concepts, students can use this opportunity to create their own poem, just like Ruby did or write a new ending to the story. If this book was read during culture week, we as a class can talk about Chinese culture and students can share their culture as well.