My Librarian is a Camel

1) Bibliography
Ruurs, Margriet. 2005. Honesdale, PA. ISBN 1590780930

2) Plot Summary
How do children in other countries receive books from the library? Ruurs tells a fascinating story of how books manage to become a part of children's lives in rural areas of certain countries. Thirteen countries are featured in this book, and each country has their own means of supplying books to children. Some books are delived by truck, mail, wheelbarrows, boat, camels, and even elephants. Each country has certain organizations that make it a priority to place literature in the minds of young readers. This is a true and fascinating read!

3) Critical Analysis
What an amazing story! Many people in the United States take it for granted how fortunate we are to have school or public libraries in our daily lives. Ruurs tells the story of mobile libraries and how crucial they are in helping educate young children. The book is set up in a very easy to read format displaying each country and their method on a 2 page spread. The pictures are all taken by the organizations themselves making the book feel unique and inspiring. The text is very simple and explains the process of delivering books in a very simple manner.

4) Review Excerpt
School Library Journal 2005
"With little information available about libraries of the world, this title offers a glimpse into the world of books, which several countries consider as important as air or water."

5) Connections
* Compare and contrast different countries and lifestyles.
* For use in multi-cultural lessons

Other books by Ruurs include When We Go Camping, and Virtual Maniac: Silly and Serious Poems for Kids.