A review by bookdragon217
My Teacher Has Tattoos by Darren Lopez

informative lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

"But many people get tattoos to express important things in their lives."

My Teacher Has Tattoos by Darren Lรณpez was a great book about a boy who catches a glimpse of his teacher's wrist tattoos when they peek out from under his shirt. He has to face his fears about what this means about his teacher's character. 

This book would make a great tool for children due to its' important themes. The story teaches about stereotypes and how not to generalize groups of people or judge by a single quality. Another theme is how cultural bias can be passed down to children by parents. Children will place more value on their parents' beliefs and negative stereotypes can be reinforced in this way. The book also explores the importance of observation and questioning to a child's learning process. When they are allowed to learn in this way, they are more likely to make more informed conclusions about people. The book also normalizes body modification as cultural practice and freedom of expression. It normalizes body art and dispels the stigma that teaches that tattoos are automatically bad. It also dispels the myth that outward appearance is indicative of character. The book normalizes children's anxieties about the unknown and receiving mixed signals. Allowing children to name the fear & get honest feedback & guidance leads to more empathy & understanding. The book also broadens the worldview for children because it features Puerto Rican and other religious and cultural identities. Using examples from different cultures fosters open mindedness.

Some good companion books for this one are:
๐Ÿ“• Tell Me A Tattoo Story by Alison McGhee
๐Ÿ“™ Why Does Mommy Have Tattoos by Marilyn Rondon
๐Ÿ“— My Aunt Has Tattoos by Abby Lyne
๐Ÿ“˜ Mommy Has a Tattoo by Phil Padwe
๐Ÿ““ My First Book of Tattoos by Robyn Wall

I loved the perspective of this book & think it is a valuable addition to any classroom or personal library. I appreciate the author's note where he shares his personal experience as a Puerto Rican & Colombian teacher with tattoos. Books like these are important because they teach acceptance of diversity and inclusion. Thanks to @soaringkitepress & @hearourvoicesbt for the gifted copy.