Social Justice Books

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

Ziggy, Stardust & Me

Reviewed by Charlie, 17 Review Source: Indigo Bookshelf: Voices of Native Youth Book Author: I’ve done some hard reviews/essays. This may be the hardest. I’m not coming from a place of “I’m a critic and I want to cut this author.” I’m not settling a score and I don’t want to be unfair or hurt anyone. I’m being true […]

Queer History of the United States for Young People

Reviewed by Conner Suddick Review Source: Independent Book Author: While a growing body of scholarship about LGBTQ+ people and history exists, LGBTQ+ history is largely inaccessible for many young people. It is usually not taught in schools or referenced in textbooks. A Queer History of the United States for Young People changes this reality. As […]

She He They Me For the Sisters Misters & Binary Resisters

Reviewed by Conner Suddick Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: OUT OF PRINT In the words of Dr. Robyn Ryle, “Gender is an epic adventure.” In her book, She, He, They, Me: For the Sisters, Misters, and Binary Resisters, Dr. Ryle provides readers the opportunity to embark on a self-determined gender journey. Written in […]

Music of What Happens

Reviewed by Conner Suddick Review Source: Independent Book Author: Life is comprised of moments that seem asynchronous, but they result in a rich symphony. The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg details the burgeoning relationship between high schoolers Max and Jordan and how they overcome their inner demons. At first, they seem completely incompatible, with […]

Love from A to Z

Reviewed by Notes from an Islamic School Librarian Review Source: Notes from an Islamic School Librarian Book Author: Now that there is legitimately a genre of YA Islamic Romance out there told in Own Voice, the expectations are high that a book is compelling, realistic, and unique somehow.  While the author’s first book, Saints and Misfits, […]

Troublemaker for Justice

Reviewed by Conner Suddick Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Authors: Troublemaker for Justice illuminates readers on the life and legacy of Bayard Rustin. A notable civil rights leader, Rustin is often cast into the historical shadows of the civil rights movement because of his sexuality, his political engagement with the communist party during the […]