Riggs, Shannon, and Jaime Zollars. 2007. Not in room 204. Morton Grove, Ill: Albert Whitman.

The students in room 204 are told by their teacher, Mrs. Salvador, that they must keep tidy, refrain from name-calling, and should not steal from their peers.  One of the students, Regina, not only follows Mrs. Salvador’s rules, but seems to appreciate the tight structure of the classroom.  Mrs. Salvador notices Regina’s quiet, withdrawn nature and attempts to ask both Regina and her mother if everything is okay.  After Mrs. Salvador teaches the students about stranger danger and their right to not be touched inappropriately, Regina decides to open up to her teacher and ask for help with a tragic and disturbing issue.

Shannon Riggs included a note at the beginning of this picture book addressing the epidemic of sexual abuse toward children.  The story treats the societal problem with as much dignity and respect as possible, without going into unnecessary details or making the reader feel too uncomfortable.  Riggs points out in her author’s note that she believes that fighting the epidemic starts with adults who care about children, and we can empower and support them.  In the story, Mrs. Salvador doesn’t pressure Regina to talk, but she lets the child know that she will find help and support if she wants it.

The illustrations by Jaime Zollars adds to the depth of the story.  Simple, yet detailed color illustrations show additional context such as facial expressions and convey a sense of seriousness in the situation.  A reader will understand the heaviness of the topic by seeing how the mood is set by the illustrations.

Review Excerpts:
School Library Journal: “The audience for this picture book may well be adults, who will be reassured and hopefully inspired by Mrs. Salvador’s example of firm boundaries lovingly enforced. In the right hands, this story could open discussion with children about sexual abuse or let a child know that there are adults who will listen.” - Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Booklist: “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.” – Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved.