Social Justice Books

Critically reviewed selection of multicultural and social justice books for children, young adults, and educators.

Lovable Lyle

Reviewed by Paige Pagan Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  Lovable Lyle is the fourth picture book in a series about Lyle the Crocodile who lives with the Primm family. In this book, Lyle is confronted with an enemy, the new girl in town, Clover Sue Hipple, who keeps leaving him threatening letters much […]

Amira’s Picture Day

Reviewed by Ariana Hussain Review Source: Hijabi Librarians Book Author: Amira feels conflicted when she realizes that school picture day is the same day as Eid. Spotting the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan, Amira and her brother Ziyad know it means that there will be prayers, celebrations, and skipping school the following day. Amira’s […]

Salma the Syrian Chef

Reviewed by Hadeal Salamah Review Source: Hijabi Librarians Book Author: Salma and her mother are Syrian Muslim refugees living at the Welcome Center for new immigrants in Vancouver, Canada. They both miss home and hope that one day soon Salma’s papa will be able to join them. Mama’s long days are filled with English classes and […]

Miles Morales: Shock Waves

Reviewed by Paige Pagan Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  Miles Morales: Shockwaves is the latest graphic novel in a series about a contemporary Brooklyn student who has superhero adventures as Spiderman. In Shockwaves, Miles helps raise money for relief efforts in Puerto Rico after a series of earthquakes strike and works to uncover how […]

My Many Colored Days

Reviewed by Paige Pagan Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  My Many Colored Days intends to teach early elementary children that it is normal to experience different emotions on different days and even on the same day, which sometimes makes it hard to understand and express yourself. Dr. Seuss attempts to give children a […]

Healer of the Water Monster

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: I am delighted to recommend Brian Young’s Healer of the Water Monster. Below I will share some of the reasons why I think you should have this book on your school library shelf, and in your classroom library, and in your home library. If there’s […]