Books like Drummers of Jericho by Carolyn Meyer
When Pazit Trujillo begins freshman year at Jericho High School, she finds that her Jewish identity and uncommon name set her apart in a small suburban town. Determined to fit in, she volunteers for the school marching band but is shocked when the band plans to march in the shape of a cross and play hymns. Pazit objects, citing her faith and feeling uncomfortable with the symbolic gesture.
Only one student, drummer Billy Harper, senses her discomfort and voices his own conviction that music should unite rather than divide. Together, Pazit and Billy navigate the town’s reactions, confront prejudice, and learn the value of friendship and exercising one’s rights.
Their shared experience becomes a lesson for the whole school, showing that respect and understanding can bridge cultural differences even in a tight-knit community.
First publish date: 1995
Genre: Children's Fiction/Early Readers
Authors: Carolyn Meyer
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