Parents' Guide to Dream Street

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Common Sense Media Review

Diondra K. Brown By Diondra K. Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Dazzling celebration of the power of a positive community.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 5+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

DREAM STREET is a place where dreams grow, hope is in the air, and joy is present on everyone's faces. After all, it's "the best street in the world!" The story introduces each person who lives on the street, and they're all equally important. Children from the entire neighborhood come to the street to play, Yusef pays respect to his ancestors, Azaria loves to jump Double Dutch, the Phillpies boys are the next great jazz band, and Mr. Sidney is the fancy street greeter. Their uniqueness and support for one another makes this street special.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This colorful picture book is a wonderful, warm ode to the power of community. Dream Street is a great representation of what is possible when everyone believes in each other, uniqueness is celebrated, and intergenerational love is present. The vibrant and inventive collages, created by illustrator Ekua Holmes, are inspired by the Boston neighborhood where she grew up with writer Tricia Elam Walker, and exude emotion. Together they show the true power of community is boundless. The book will inspire children to want to make their street a better place to live.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how in Dream Street everyone is important and makes the street a special place to live. What makes your community special? Do you have neighbors that you like to spend time with?

  • Who was your favorite character in the book? Why?

  • Artist Ekua Holmes used collage techniques to make the book's illustrations. Can you make a similar picture? Be sure to use bright colors!

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

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