No More Chairs
Dan Gill, Author
Susan Gal, Illustrator
Little Brown, 2025.
Ages 6 to 10 years.
The back cover of this book reads: “In this true story, a young boy learns that one small childhood experience can resonate for a lifetime!”
Dan Gill was a social studies teacher at Glenfield Middle School for over 50 years, and this is his debut picture book. He draws from his childhood to deliver a powerful message to his students and now with us. Gill always leaves an extra empty chair in the front of his classroom. Why?
Gill shares his own memories with his best friend, Archie Shaw and how one act of unkindness shifted Dan’s thought process about acceptance and inclusion (for the better).
At the beginning of each school year Gill’s middle school students are very interested in learning about THE empty chair that sits in the front of their classroom.
We learn that when Gill was the age of his current students, Gill and his best friend had been invited to another classmate’s birthday party.
They walked over together through the streets of New York City, beautifully depicted through Susan Gal’s vibrant and colorful illustrations. When the classmate’s mom opened the apartment door and saw a dark-skinned boy, she declared that there were not enough chairs so Archie would have to leave. Fair-skinned Dan was told he could stay. Not understanding initially, Dan Gill offered some suggestions that would fix the problem (they could sit on the floor, he could go home and get another chair). When the hostess got louder in her declaration that there were “No More Chairs”, Dan finally realized what was happening. Leaving both of their presents for the classmate, the friends turned around and departed together.
Readers could use this book to start several conversations about prejudice, honesty, empathy, and kindness etc. Strikingly dynamic and vivid illustrations accompany this story of friendship and inclusion.
Why the empty/extra chair? Gill presented a visual clue each day to teach an amazing lesson of acceptance and kindness, to show that everyone is welcome and to demonstrate Gill’s commitment to making sure all kids feel accepted.
From the author: This story “is an opportunity for parents and educators to engage in conversations about their own opportunities to be an ally and to be accepting.” “May you have a chair in your heart for anyone who comes knocking at your door filled with anticipation.” The author’s note at the end of the book is also enlightening.
Do you have an extra chair?
Submitted by Karen Kosko
