Social Justice Books

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

Clap When You Land

Reviewed by Shea Martin Review Source: Electric Lit Book Author: I don’t remember where I was when I heard about Covid-19, when I learned that life would never be the same. Nine months later, I am still trying to reconcile with this new normal of grief and isolation. In her highly-lauded sophomore release, Clap When You […]

Long Way Down

Reviewed by Shea Martin Review Source: Electric Lit Book Author: This ain’t the year for sugarcoating the truth. Jason Reynolds’s 2017 novel, Long Way Down, gives it to us in heart-wrenching verse that demands we pay attention — not only to the story, but also to our own truth. Readers spend the novel on an elevator ride […]

Apple (Skin to the Core)

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: Monday, October 12 is Indigenous Peoples’ Day. There will be many virtual events taking place. Top of my list is the one from Arizona State University. Eric Gansworth will open their day of events. When you click on through to register for his lecture […]

The Gravedigger’s Archaeology

Review Source: Independent Book Author: I have taught several poems by Salvadoran American poet William Archila. At the end of my American Literature class, we have discussed several of Archila’s poems. His poems are accessible but crafted and beautiful. He surprises his reader with language that invites the reader to a deeper understanding and empathy. […]

The Radius of Us

Reviewed by Daniella Burgi-Palomino Review Source: Independent Book Author: Recommended with a caveat Marie Marquardt’s captivating and poignant story of Phoenix and Gretchen in The Radius of Us draws the reader in and makes us feel like we really get to know both characters and accompany them on their emotional journey. I give the author credit […]

Frankly in Love

Reviewed by Cierra Kaler-Jones Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Although the title indicates that this might be a romance, the book covers love in not just romantic ways, but as family, friendship, protection, forgiveness, acceptance, and letting go. The true strength of the novel is that the author, David Yoon, navigates cultural differences, […]