Social Justice Books

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

Watch Me: A Story of Immigration and Inspiration

Reviewed by Deborah Jung Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: While Watch Me tells an inspiring story for young children, it also perpetuates some common tropes about immigrant success stories that downplay the impact of systemic barriers. Joe is a driven young immigrant to the United States from Sierra Leone who becomes a successful […]

The Night Before Eid: A Muslim Family Story

Reviewed by Heba F. El-Shazli Reviewed Source: Africa Access Book Author: The holy month of Ramadan is a special time of the year for every Muslim family around the world. The end of Ramadan is joyfully celebrated with a holiday named Eid El Fitr, which celebrates the end of a month of fasting from sunrise […]

The Story of Juneteenth

Reviewed by Brad Manker Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  The Story of Juneteenth presents an over-simplified explanation of the historic anniversary. While the author’s intent is admirable, this board book follows the dominant, accepted narrative about emancipation and ignores the sacrifices and courage of Black Americans, largely depicting them as passive actors. This problematic […]

My Rainbow

Reviewed by Paige Pagan and Brad Manker Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  Simple language and vibrant illustrations highlight the warm dynamics of a close-knit and accepting Black family in this picture book about a transgender child living with autism. This book for younger elementary school students centers on Trinity, a transgender girl in a […]

Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi!

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: Look at the cover of Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi! See the purple rectangle on the top right corner that says “Story Telling MATH” in it? This book is a story about math! And I am delighted to share it with AICL’s readers. […]

A-Train Allen

Reviewed by Vanessa Williams Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  Quick! Hurry! Lickety-split! Dash over and read Lesley Younge’s A-Train Allen, a darling story that reads more like a hero’s errand and less like a hero’s journey because we’re not beleaguered with unwelcome visitors like devastating setbacks or insurmountable obstacles. Simultaneously imaginative and grounded, A-Train […]