Not in Room 204

Breaking the Silence of Abuse

Mrs. Salvador is one tough teacher. But Regina Lillian Hadwig, a very quiet student, doesn’t mind. She likes the order and discipline Mrs. Salvador expects. At a report card conference, Mrs. Salvador tells Regina’s mom that Regina is doing a great job, but that she is very quiet. “Are you quiet at home, like you are in school?” Mrs. Salvador asks Regina. And Regina thinks of the secret she keeps so quiet—the one even her mom doesn’t know, about the secret things her father does. “Yes, I’m quiet at home, too,” says Regina. “Maybe we can work on that,” says Mrs. Salvador. When Mrs. Salvador reads a book about Stranger Danger, she emphasizes one thing—that the person doing the inappropriate touching might not be a stranger at all. It might be someone a child knows very well. Will Regina find the courage to tell Mrs. Salvador her terrible secret?

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  • 32 Pages
  • 8" x 10"
  • 9780807557662
  • August 2017

Buy from Albert Whitman

  • 9780807557655
  • March 2015

Reviews

  • This picture book’s strength is in the forthrightness of its message and the sensitivity of its presentation: Regina’s father’s actions are implied but never stated, and Regina’s trust in her teacher is firmly in place before the situation unfolds…The text and digitally enhanced artwork work together well to express the book’s message smoothly. The characters, especially Regina, dominate the illustrations, which are notable for their clear lines and interesting and varied textures and colors. This helpful picture book will raise children’s awareness of sexual abuse without raising anxiety.

    - Booklist, starred review

  • Overall, the text is strong and graceful, the story manages to avoid proselytizing and appealing illustrations grace the pages…A good choice for parents and teachers who plan to address safety and molestation with children.

    - Kirkus Reviews

  • This picture book addresses the topic of sexual abuse directly and thoughtfully…Zollar’s expressive pictures capture the warm, bright classroom as well as Regina’s worry and isolation. In the portrayal of the upright and caring teacher, the book provides a surprisingly natural voice for the central lesson while modeling how to create a safe space for a child with a terrifying secret.

    - The Horn Book Magazine

  • The illustrations are warm and inviting and provide an imaginative subtext through the other students’ antics. The message of the book is a comforting one, that at least some adults can establish a safe environment, be consistent, and always know what to do…This story could open discussion with children about sexual abuse or let a child know that there are adults who will listen.

    - School Library Journal

Awards & Accolades

  • Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book 2007
  • Eloise Jarvis McGraw Award for Children's Literature, 2007 Oregon Book Awards

Illustrator

Jaime Zollars

Common Core

RL.K.1,2,3,5,7,9,10 RL.1.1,2,3,4,5,6,7,9 RL.2.1,2,3,5,6,7,10 SL.K-2.2, 3

 

  • Accelerated Reader Points: 0.50
  • ATOS Level: 3.30