Social Justice Books

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

Mary and the Trail of Tears: A Cherokee Removal Survival Story

Reviewed by Catherine Baty Review Source: Acornmush Book Author: When I first got Mary and the Trail of Tears I checked the About the Author on the last page. Often in children’s literature Native stories are told by non-Natives which can lead to inaccuracies in the portrayal of characters. I was delighted to learn that the author, Andrea […]

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 […]

Spotted Tail

Reviewed by Jean Mendoza Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: Nineteenth-century Sicangu Lakota leader Spotted Tail (Sinte Gleska) is the subject of a new biography for middle grades, by David Heska Wanbli Weiden (Spotted Tail, Reycraft Books, 2019). Spotted Tail was highly influential, but is generally less well-known than other Plains leaders […]

Fry Bread

Reviewed by Ashleigh (13), Alexis (19), Charlie (17), Langston (13), and Michael (18) Review Source: Indigo’s Bookshelf: Voices of Native Youth Book Author: There is no doubt about it–Native children’s literature and  YA literature, fiction and nonfiction, is having a moment. Every time we turn around, there’s another wonderful book at the library or the publication details are announced […]

The Miseducation of Cameron Post

Reviewed by Debbie Reese Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature Book Author: emily m. danforth’s The Miseducation of Cameron Post made quite a splash when it was published in 2012. Published by Balzar + Bray (an imprint of HarperCollins), it won the 2012 Montana Book Award, was a finalist for the William C. Morris Young Adult […]

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 […]