Last Stop on Market Street holds a special place in my heart. I remember sitting on a quiet afternoon, reading it, and feeling like I’d just witnessed something profound. Matt de la Peña’s story, paired with Christian Robinson’s vibrant, dynamic illustrations, captures the beauty of everyday life in a way that feels deeply authentic.
The story follows CJ, a young boy, and his Nana as they navigate their Sunday bus ride through the city. What begins as a routine trip transforms into a lesson on gratitude and finding beauty in unlikely places. CJ is full of questions - Why don’t they have a car? Why does the world look so drab in the rain? And with each question, Nana offers wisdom that shifts CJ’s perspective, teaching him to see the richness in his surroundings, even amidst the city’s imperfections.
The relationship between CJ and his Nana is the heart of this story, and it is one that I think will resonate with readers of all ages. There is a warmth and tenderness in the way they interact, a bond that reminds me of the times I spent with my own grandparents, learning from their quiet strength. Nana’s ability to embrace the beauty in everything from music to community, even when faced with challenges, feels both timely and timeless.
Robinson’s illustrations add another layer to the narrative. His use of bold, bright colors brings the urban setting to life, filling the pages with people of different ages, backgrounds, and abilities, making the city feel diverse and alive. Each scene feels intimate yet expansive, like the city itself is a character with its own stories to tell.
What I love most about Last Stop on Market Street is how it handles themes of poverty and inequality with grace. It doesn’t shy away from the realities of CJ’s world, but instead, it uplifts the idea that material wealth isn’t the only measure of a rich life. The story gently reminds us that beauty can be found in simple acts of kindness, in music, in community, and most importantly, in human connection.
This book is a treasure, perfect for children and a comforting read for parents. It’s a celebration of gratitude, family, and finding joy in the journey, no matter where it takes you. If you haven’t read it yet, I can’t recommend it enough. You might even find yourself a little misty-eyed, as I did, as you reach the last stop on Market Street.
Questions to ask while reading:
- Choose any two characters from the book. In what ways are they different? In what ways are they similar?
- There is a designated seat on the bus for Nana and the blind man. Do you think having this seat is beneficial? Why or why not?
- Do you believe that volunteering brings joy to Nana and CJ? Explain your reasoning.
Last Stop on Market Street on Amazon
More books by Christian Robinson:
Gaston