Annie…Anya: A Month in Moscow

Five-year old Annie spends a month in Moscow with her parents, doctors who are working there in a hospital.  When she first arrives, everything is unfamiliar – even the alphabet.  Annie tries to cope with the unwelcome changes by withdrawing, but soon makes friends with Anya, a Russian girl at her daycare.  Anya helps her learn Russian, and soon Annie is enjoying her new home.  A touching portrayal of a child’s culture shock, especially when Annie comforts herself when overwhelmed with the Cyrillic writing around her by singing the alphabet song loudly to herself.

Reading level: age 6-9 years

A Piece of Home

Gregor and his family are moving from Russia to America, and he is not sure he wants to go.  He’ll miss his friends, teacher, and familiar places.  When they pack, each family member is allowed to choose one memento to bring along, and Gregor decides on his blanket.  When he meets his cousin in America, though, he is embarrassed by his choice, until he and his cousin discover that they have something very special in common.  Fun fact: this book is illustrated by a TCK.

Reading level: age 4-8 years