Matchbox Diary, The

When a young girl visits her great-grandfather she discovers his special diary of his immigrant life—treasures he keeps in matchboxes. The treasures may seem ordinary, but they represent his journey from Italy to the United States in the early 20th century. The compelling illustrations and realistic memories present a powerful portrayal of immigrant life and the hardships and triumphs encountered on the move to a new country to have a better life. Suitable for class read-aloud, independent reading, literature circles, discussion of immigration and multiculturalism, and to inspire journaling for grades 4-7.