The World Belonged to Us

Reach for this book when your child feels the itch for independence or when you want to celebrate the simple, unplugged joy of community play. It is a vibrant love letter to a Brooklyn summer where the ringing of the ice cream truck and the spray of a fire hydrant define the day. Beyond the nostalgia, it speaks to the deep emotional need for belonging and the feeling of safety found within one's own neighborhood. Jacqueline Woodson uses lyrical prose to capture the transition from the school year to a summer of freedom. Perfect for ages 4 to 8, the story celebrates African American joy and the resourcefulness of children who turn city streets into their own private kingdom. It is a beautiful choice for families wanting to discuss heritage, the power of friendship, and the magic of finding adventure exactly where you are.