KIDS LIKE ME: VOICES OF THE IMMI

Whether fleeing the ravages of war or coming in search of opportunities, the story of immigration remains the principal narrative of our times.

As our neighborhoods grow more diverse, a splendid variety of cultures, values and traditions become an important part of our classrooms and schools. In Kids Like Me, 26 personal narratives celebrate the experience of young people making a new home in a strange community-finding common ground as they make new friends, learn English, share their cultural identities, their challenges, successes and dreams.

Kids Like Me provides a youthful perspective on the important themes of crossing cultures, immigration and citizenship and learning to appreciate differences. These stories are intended to foster intercultural awareness and sensitivity and encourage individual and community action to assist newcomers in their adjustment. While written to help youth understand their classmates and friends, Kids Like Me also includes discussion questions, self-directed activities and research ideas for teachers and other mentors that can be used in classrooms, youth clubs and community settings.

Richly illustrated with photos and maps of each home country, the text presents countless opportunities to explore and understand different cultures and new friends. Young people who have come from all over the world share their stories and invite their new neighbors to see that in so many ways these kids are just like me.

Judee Blohm is a cross-cultural educator and training consultant in Washington, DC. Her clients include professional and educational organizations, Peace Corps and other development and service organizations, and the State Department. Judy is the author and editor of numerous training materials and has contributed chapters to various books in the intercultural field and the book Where in the World are You Going? (Intercultural Press, 1996.)

Terri Lapinsky is a consultant with 30 years' experience in international and multicultural education and training, including holding positions in the Peace Corp as Program and Training Advisor for Africa, Country Director for Mozambique and Education Specialist. Her clients include the Jefferson County (West Virginia) Public Schools, New York City Public Schools and the UN Economic Commission for Africa. Lapinsky lives in West Virginia.