By Colleen Nelson
The power of ADVOCACY.
Real kids are more than capable to tackle REAL ISSUES that matter and impact the world around them.
So, let’s talk about Umbrella House by Colleen Nelson.
In this story, Roxy, a middle school student who lives in New York City, has her own can a YouTube channel, EaVillKids, which showcases stories within her East Village neighborhood. Roxy’s partner is Scout, a talented photographer who captures the very essence of the human soul through his photography.
Roxy discovers that her all time reporter hero, Evelyn Paul, is launching a video contest for young people.
The video contest rules state that all entries must be original and unpublished contest.
Keep in mind, they live in East Village. In New York City. Their home, Umbrella House, has become the object of gentrification, through a big company. Not only are they in danger of losing their home, but the entire neighborhood and community is at risk. Businesses are closing. People are moving. Drastic change is literally around the corner.
So, Roxy and Scout decide to use the video contest as a vehicle to fight for Umbrella House.
I think what I loved most about this novel was seeing young people use their individual creative talents to tackle a problem together. Scout with his photography and video skills. Roxy with her tenacity and confidence. Her honest and collaborative spirit. And her ability to use her storytelling craft to impact others.
The collectiveness and ingenuity of the characters within this story to solve a crisis in their community was inspiring. It wasn’t just one person. It was the power of TOGETHER that helped them navigate real emotions and realities.
While this is a fiction story, Umbrella House on Avenue C in NYC is REAL!
Over the years, I’ve often been on the hunt for stories that showcase young people wanting to tackle an injustice or a problem. The Umbrella House deeply draws the reader into the hearts of Roxy and Scout, revealing not only how to support family and friends, but how to work together to seek the truth. Plus, Roxy and Scott embrace their love of the arts and individual talents to tell TRUTH!
Isn’t this exactly what we want to empower young people to do? Seek Truth. Solve problems. Showcase unique ideas through through creativity and voice. Stories do matter. Not only the books we read, but the STORIES we share with the world around us. I highly recommend purchasing The Umbrella House by Colleen Nelson.
It’s a journey of creative energy, the importance of home and the power of WE!
