Social Justice Books

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

Calvin

Interview by Audie Cornish, Jonaki Mehta, and Sarah Handel Review Source: NPR Book Author: Instead of a review, we are posting an interview with the authors of Calvin,  JR and Vanessa Ford, by Audie Cornish, Jonaki Mehta, and Sarah Handel at NPR. Calvin was always a boy — but the world did not recognize him that […]

That Flag

Reviewed by Brad Manker Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Author Tameka Fryer Brown and illustrator Nikkolas Smith have written the first book of its kind for young readers about the meaning of the battle flag of the Confederacy — and indirectly — about the “Lost Cause” narrative and its impact today. Keira, who is […]

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 […]