Social Justice Books

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

Troublemaker

Reviewed by Deborah Jung Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author: Troublemaker is a nuanced and emotionally rich middle grade chapter book recalling the 1992 Los Angeles Uprising, or Sa-I-Gu, from the perspective of a young Korean American boy trying to find his father. The book’s protagonist, Jordan, is a Korean American seventh grader whose […]

Strong as Fire, Fierce as Flame

Reviewed by Paige Pagan Review Source: Teaching for Change Book Author:  This is a moving and thought-provoking middle grade historical novel set in British-occupied India in 1857. On the day before Meera’s 13th birthday, she’s expected to move into her husband’s home with his family, as is the Indian custom, but in a twist of fate, […]

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 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 […]