No More Chairs

K-Gr 3–In this heartfelt retelling of a true story, the first day of school brings a meaningful lesson to Mr. Gill’s classroom. As students settle in, they notice an empty chair at the front. When they ask why it’s there, Mr. Gill shares a memory from his childhood—one that shaped his lifelong commitment to inclusion. As a boy, Mr. Gill’s best friend was denied entry to a birthday party because he was Black. The birthday boy’s mother claimed there were “no more chairs,” but the real reason was prejudice. Now, as a teacher, Mr. Gill tells this story every year, ensuring his students understand that in his classroom, everyone belongs, and there will always be a chair for them. The book’s back pages include photographs of the author and his childhood friend in high school and Gill today. Gal’s bright, expressive illustrations beautifully capture the era with thoughtful details like wooden scooters and 1950s cars.