Social Justice Books

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

I’m Finding My Talk

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: A reader wrote to ask me about I’m Finding My Talk. I did not know about the book prior to being asked about it. I was able to get a copy and was deeply touched by it. The author’s father was in […]

Wings of an Eagle: The Gold Medal Dreams of Billy Mills

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: I spent several hours over the last two weeks, watching the 2024 Olympics. Part way in, I saw that Billy Mills was there. He was sharing photos to his Facebook page. I pulled up the video of his race and shared it […]

Breonna Marches Through Time

Reviewed by Brad Manker Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: During the summer of 2020, young Washington, D.C., resident Breonna laments her loss of freedom during the COVID-19 lockdown and loss of community during Black Lives Matter protests. One day while she and her family are watching a news broadcast, she magically travels through time […]

Priya Dreams of Marigolds & Masala

Reviewed by Abrita Kuthumi and Brad Manker Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Every day after school, Priya and her grandmother, Babi Ba, make rotli (flatbread). Every day, Priya asks, “What is India like?”and Babi Ba describes the smells, sights, and tastes of her beloved homeland.  One winter, Priya notices her grandmother gazing at […]

The Umbrella

Reviewed by Olvin Abrego Ayala Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: The Umbrella is a visually appealing children’s book that accurately portrays the rich diversity of plant and animal life in Costa Rica and Central America. Jan Brett’s beautiful illustrations of the Monteverde Cloudforest bring the story to life and make it an engaging read.  […]

Behind Every Rug

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: Those who follow my work know that I’ve been frustrated many times with things Scholastic does. Sometimes, though, they do a good thing. Case in point? Behind Every Rug. This little book is by Daniel W. Vandever. I highly recommended his previous books. Fall […]