Social Justice Books

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

Take a Seat — Make a Stand: A Hero in the Family

Reviewed by Matthew Smee Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Take a Seat – Make a Stand: A Hero in the Family tells the story of Sarah Keys Evans, a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement. The story of Keys Evans’ bravery and perseverance is often brushed over in history curricula today. Few […]

Alfredito Flies Home

Reviewed by Beverly Slapin Review Source: De Colores Reviews  Book Author: Alfredito and his grandma and parents are preparing to go home to El Salvador for Christmas—the first time they’ve returned since they fled as refugees and made their way to California on foot. This will be the first plane ride for them, and anticipation […]

Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence

Teaching Stories Reviewed by Allyson Criner Brown Review Source: Zinn Education Project Book Author: Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence gives young readers a slavery-to-freedom narrative that is clever, honest, and age appropriate. Gretchen Woelfle’s recounting of Elizabeth Freeman’s true story of resistance and liberation is smartly written and beautifully illustrated. Readers are introduced to Mumbet, a Black […]

The Peace Tree from Hiroshima: The Little Bonsai with a Big Story

Reviewed by Maria Brescia-Weiler Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: The Peace Tree from Hiroshima is narrated by the titular tree, a nearly four hundred year old bonsai that now resides in the National Arboretum. Throughout its long lifetime, the tree is passed down from generation to generation, and it witnesses many important events […]

Down to Earth: How Kids Help Feed the World

Reviewed by Maria Brescia-Weiler Review Source:  Independent Book Author: Down to Earth: How Kids Help Feed the World provides an overview on the types of crops and livestock one might find on a farm. The subtitle is misleading, as the book focuses more on the uses of different farm products than on the role of children […]

The Princess of Fort Hill Shelter

Reviewed by Deborah Thomas Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Written by D.C. high school students, Karta Morris, Darne’sah Walker and Zorita Walker, The Princess of Fort Hill Shelter tells a beautiful story of a young girl navigating difficult changes in her family. The book opens with Princess McKenzie welcoming the reader into her […]