January 26, 2009

The publication of Goober Joe occurs as Barack Obama assumes this nation’s highest office, following an unprecedented mass crossing of gender and ethnic barriers.

Joe, like President Obama, is of mixed race, but of an earlier era.  This young man growing up in Georgia struggles to discover his identity during the chaos of the Civil War.  François, an escaped Union prisoner of Ojibwe/French ancestry, shares his cultural wisdom as he helps Joe find the man within himself.  Joe’s story inspires and encourages young readers to draw strength from diverse heritages. 

In-den-a-way’-ma-gen [We are all related—Ojibwe]. 

 

Reviews from fellow librarians:

“Joe engrossed me with his story and gave me a taste of what it was like living in the shadow of a Civil War prison stockade.” –Steve McClendon, Librarian, Vincent (AL) Elementary School.

“I love the multicultural aspects: Black, White, French, Native American; and how they interact—not just North and South.” –Katie Jane Morris, Librarian, Hoover (AL) Public Library, Young Adult Section.

“Joe’s search for a last name in his rite of passage with the help of Frank, whose American Indian upbringing adds a good deal of mystery to an interesting story will appeal to young readers.” –Dr. Shirley Spears, Director, B. B. Comer Memorial Library, Sylacauga, AL.

Order copies of Goober Joe from your vendor ($18.50 ea.) or special library rate ($15.00 ea. including postage) from bobwhetstone@bellsouth.net  or  www.bobwhetstone.com.

Author available to speak to groups—at book fairs or other events.  Contact by email.