Children’s / Teenage: Social issues / topics

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis“This book is a treasure—a touching story of friendship, loss, and finding beauty in the everyday, with characters who stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. I absolutely loved it.”—R. J. Palacio, New York Times bestselling author of WonderLaurel Snyder, author of Orphan Island, returns with another unforgettable story of the moments in which we find out who we are, and the life-altering friendships that show us what we can be.The school year is over, and it is summer in Atlanta. The sky is blue, the sun is blazing, and the days brim with possibility. But Leah feels. . . lost. She has been this way since one terrible afternoon a year ago, when everything changed. Since that day, her parents have become distant, her friends have fallen away, and Leah’s been adrift and alone.Then she meets Jasper, a girl unlike anyone she has ever known. There’s something mysterious about Jasper, almost magical. And Jasper, Leah discovers, is also lost. Together, the two girls carve out a place for themselves, a hideaway in the overgrown spaces of Atlanta, away from their parents and their hardships, somewhere only they can find.But as the days of this magical June start to draw to a close, and the darker realities of their lives intrude once more, Leah and Jasper have to decide how real their friendship is, and whether it can be enough to save them both.

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Book SynopsisStephen Hogtun is an author/illustrator who lives on the west coast of sunny Norway in an old house overlooking a fjord. His picture books cover serious topics in a very gentle, child-friendly way and feature visually stunning illustrations.Trade Review'This is, by far and away, the most beautiful book I've ever read' -- Jacqueline Johnson (@JJohnsonbooks) * Instagram *'This is the best illustrated children's book I have ever read' -- Kara Benoit * www.goodreads.com *'This book...this is THE book... this book has found me.The most beautiful book I have ever read' -- @katievee2 * Instagram *'It's beauty made me cry! This book is the most vividly beautiful prose poem I've ever read. Truly breathtaking' -- H. Berryman * www.goodreads.com *'Absolutely stunning. The most moving, powerful, thought provoking picture book I have ever read' -- Candyfloss * www.goodreads.com *'I very seldom write a review, but this book...It is the most beautiful and stunning story of kindness, love and redemption told in the most charming way with outstanding illustrations' -- Lejane Kurt-Hardy * www.goodreads.com *'Well this really is a beauty...a heartwarming and truly lovely story of hope and how that can bring colour back into peoples lives' -- Simon Smith (@smithsmm) * Twitter *'I'm a massive fan of picture books and I've got to say The Station Cat is one of the most powerful I've read. By the end of the story, as the train returns to the station I had tears in my eyes and I was surprised as I hadn't realised how much this story had affected me' -- Tom Griffiths * Check ‘em out Books Blog *'I cried from the first page to the last, yet it had such a soothing effect also. It is full of hope and kindness and love. I will read and re-read this time and time again' -- Kurde * Waterstones Horsham Bookseller Review *'This is a truly exquisite book.' -- Waterstones Bracknell * Bookseller review *'The perfect book to bring the beauty and hope of a well-written story into your classroom. Full of beautifully written similes and metaphors, Hogtun's writing takes the reader through a delightful journey' -- Tami Parker * www.obsessedwithlearning.com *

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Book SynopsisIt''s summer before eighth grade, and Erica Chia Montenegro is feeling so many things that she needs a mood ring to keep track of her emotions. She''s happy when she hangs out with her best friends, the Robins. She''s jealous that her genius little sister skipped two grades. And she''s passionate about the crushes on her Boyfriend Wish list. And when Erica''s mom is diagnosed with breast cancer, she feels worried and doesn''t know what she can do to help.When her family visits a cuarto de milagros, a miracle room in a famous church, Erica decides to make a promesa to God in exchange for her mom''s health. As her mom gets sicker, Erica quickly learns that juggling family, friends, school, and fulfilling a promesa is stressful, but with a little bit of hope and a lot of love, she just might be able to figure it out.Confetti Girl author Diana Lopez returns with this sweet, funny, and utterly honest story about being a girl in a woTrade ReviewLópez delicately displays the power of optimism and innovation during difficult times. * Publishers Weekly *The many characters in Chia's life are individually and lovingly drawn...Readers will feel like Chia's family and friends could do anything as long as they stick together-and they may be right. * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisPigeon and Cat form a lasting bond in this poignant picture book about compassion and friendship.In an abandoned city lot, Cat lives alone in a cardboard box. He leaves only to find food. One day, Cat discovers an unbroken egg too beautiful to eat. Soon, out pecks Pigeon, and they become fast friends. Cat is happy to share his box with Pigeon. But when Pigeon flies far away from where they live, Cat must brave the city in order to rescue his friend. This journey will forever transform his understanding of home.This heartwarming story explores unlikely friendships, the creative spark within us, and how to give comfort and kindness in small, impactful gestures. It is also a celebration of urban community. 

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Book SynopsisAn ALA Notable Book for Children Winner of the Woodson AwardHe challenged the Supreme Court on his right to be called citizen—and won   When American-born Wong Kim Ark returns home to San Francisco after a visit to China, he’s stopped and told he cannot enter: he isn’t American. What happens next would forever change the national conversation on who is and isn’t American. After being imprisoned on a ship for months, Wong Kim Ark takes his case to the Supreme Court and argues any person born in America is an American citizen.  I am an American: The Wong Kim Ark Story is an important picture book that introduces young readers to the young man who challenged the Supreme Court for his right to be an American citizen and won, confirming birthright citizenship for all Americans.  

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Book SynopsisA powerful imagining by two Native creators of the first encounter between a European explorer and a Native North American that celebrates our ability to acknowledge difference and find common ground.

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Gary D. Schmidt comes the companion to the modern classic Firegirl from acclaimed writer Tony Abbott -- now in paperback! Life hasn''t been great for Jeff Hicks. After years at his beloved St. Catherine''s, he''s forced to spend eighth grade in the public middle school, which he hates. He''s no longer speaking to his former best friend, Tom Bender, because of that burned girl Jessica Feeney. But worst of all, his family is changing, and it''s not for the better. When his mom comes home announcing that she''s lost her job, Jeff begins to worry about things far beyond his years: How will they pay the rent? Will his absentee dad step up and save the day? Is his mom drinking too much? And ultimately, where will they live?The Great Jeff is a powerful look at the life of a troubled boy who finds his life spiraling out of control.

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Book SynopsisThe ABCs of AOC is an inspiring, educational, and giftable book about the representative taking Congress--and the media--by storm. This empowering and informative book is the perfect conversation starter for young people interested in government and activism, and the ultimate gift for anyone who wants to learn more about Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. From Advocate to Feminist, Grassroots to Queens, and Revolutionary to Zeal, The ABCs of AOC introduces readers to values, places, and issues that relate to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez''s life and platform. A clear and engaging explanation of each term is paired with a stunning, contemporary illustration that will delight readers. This is an alphabet book like no other! The book closes with a wealth of information expanding on the A-Z of concepts introduced, for readers ready to learn more about the rev

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Book SynopsisAn essential nonfiction guide for families looking to share genuinely patriotic values, especially during an election year -- from the creators of the bestselling series Dino Tales: Life Guides for Families.

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Book SynopsisFrom Jess Townes with illustrations by Daniel Miyares, this poignant picture book deftly tackles the wide array of emotions experienced in childhood, and especially reminding readers that there's nothing wrong with crying.Sometimes I cry. . . when I'm angry.. . . when I'm scared.. . . when I'm happy.There are all sorts of feelings that can make us cryfrom disappointment to joy, from grief to love. Sometimes I Cry offers a gentle and necessary affirmation of the emotional complexity of growing up. Powerful, poignant, and universally relevant, it is a triumph for readers of any age. Sometimes I cry.And that's okay.

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Woodson is the 2018-2019 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López have teamed up to create a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone.Trade Review* “National Book Award winner and national treasure Jacqueline Woodson teams up with two-time Pura Belpré Award recipient Rafael López to deliver an empowering message to any child who has ever felt too different. . . . Woodson and López offer a needed message of comfort to preschool and early elementary students. Woodson's lulling free verse reassures the reader that the world will ‘make some space,’ while López's dreamy, near-translucent mixed-media illustrations thrum with playful joy. This gentle, powerful ode to diversity and acceptance belongs with all children.”—Shelf Awareness, starred review* “A beautiful and inclusive story that encourages children to find the beauty in their own lives and share it with the world. . . . Each child feels very alone until they begin to share their stories and discover that it is nearly always possible to find someone a little like you. López’s vibrant illustrations bring the characters’ hidden and unspoken thoughts to light with fantastic, swirling color. Shifting hues and textures across the page convey their deep loneliness and then slowly transition into bright hopeful possibilities. Full-bleed illustrations on every page are thick with collaged patterns and textures that pair perfectly with melodic prose that begs to be read aloud. . . . There’s an essential acknowledgment that everyone will experience a time when no one is quite like them, when they can’t find their voice, or when they feel very alone. Woodson’s superlative text sees each character turn that moment of desolation into an opportunity to be brave and find hope in what they have in common. This masterful story deserves a place in every library.”—School Library Journal, starred review* “A bright jewel-toned palette and clever details, including a literal reflection of a better future, reveal hope and pride. . . . This reassuring, lyrical book feels like a big hug from a wise aunt as she imparts the wisdom of the world in order to calm trepidatious young children: One of these things is not like the other, and that is actually what makes all the difference. A must-have book about the power of one’s voice and the friendships that emerge when you are yourself.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review* “Woodson’s poetic lines give power to each child’s experience. . . . López paints the book’s array of children as students in the same classroom; patterns and colors on the children’s clothing and the growing things around them fill the spreads with life. Woodson’s gentle, lilting story and López’s artistry create a stirring portrait of the courage it takes to be oneself.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review* “Woodson’s lyrical text is gently reassuring as it moves between broad discussion and specific examples of difference and discomfort, which emphasize children moving across cultures but will speak to children from all backgrounds and experiences. Mixed-media illustrations . . . combine bold with soft colors and textures in a slightly shaded tropical palette; compositions employ creative and insightful perspectives to suit the characters’ feelings. . . . The artist frequently incorporates a ruler into the illustrations, which perhaps speaks to the children’s perceptions of how they measure up to others. This lovely and sensitive treatment of adjustment deserves a spot in any collection for youngsters.”—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review“Woodson catches the uncertainty, even fear, that comes with new situations. But her lyrical language also captures the moment when confidence sparks and friendships are born. . . . The bold, bright artwork features a diverse cast of kids. . . . The important message plays out in a striking design that mixes the everyday with flights of fancy. Woodson, a recent National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, is one of kidlit's brightest stars, and this should find lots of eager hands.”—Booklist “What will it take for a child who feels different to share her stories? . . . Like Woodson’s memoir Brown Girl Dreaming, this story places great value on literacy, reading, and imagination. The matte-finished pages feature illustrations in vivid, brilliant colors, with repeated appearances of flying birds and lush, twining vines and flowers.”—Horn Book

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Book SynopsisSupreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is the 32nd hero in the New York Times bestselling picture book biography series for ages 5 to 9.Before Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was the judge, she was a young Jewish girl growing up in Brooklyn, inspired by books, past female trailblazers, and her mother to make the world a better, more just place to be. So even when people turned her away—for being a girl and for being Jewish—she never stopped fighting for equal treatment for everyone by pushing back against unjust laws and the beliefs around them.  This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big.Included in each book are:   A timeline of key events in the hero’s history  Photos that bring the story more fully to life  Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable Childhood moments that influenced the hero   Facts that make great conversation-starters  A virtue this person embodies: Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s perseverance to create justice and equality is highlighted. You’ll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series!

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Book Synopsis From the author of I Wish My Teacher Knew, how grownups can empower children to stand up for what they believe inThird-grade teacher Kyle Schwartz often tells her students: You are not here so you can make money in a decade. You are here so you can make a difference now.Young people are up for the task. In the face of school shootings, cyber bullying, and other challenges students face at school, there are students who are changing the world right now.In I Wish for Change, teacher and author Kyle Schwartz equips both teachers and parents to help children stand up for what they believe is right and make value-driven decisions. She shows how children''s adaptability, vulnerability, and empathy make them excellent agents for change, as well as how to teach children about the mechanics and structures of power so they can effectively change them.Filled with inspiring stories fr

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Book SynopsisIn-depth explorations of big topics in today's world.

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Book SynopsisAn all-star collection of essays about activism and hope, edited by bestselling YA author Maureen Johnson.Trade Review"Candor and passion radiate from the 30 voices raised in this trenchant and timely compendium of interviews, essays, reflections, illustrations, and poems." -- Publisher's Weekly "[Maureen Johnson] has done an exceptional job calling on different voices to share their wisdom and thoughts on making a difference" -- School Library Journal "This offers plenty of access points for teens looking for advice, catharsis, and/or motivation." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

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Book SynopsisIn Cazadora, Romina Garber weaves together Argentine folklore and what it means to be illegal in a timely, intimate, and emotionally powerful narrative.Werewolves. Witches. Romance. Resistance.Enter a world straight out of Argentine folklore...Following the events of Lobizona, Manu and her friends cross the mystical border into Keranaa cursed realm in Argentinasearching for allies and a hiding place. As they chase down leads about the Covena mythical resistance manada that might not even existthe Cazadores chase down leads about Manu, setting up traps to capture and arrest her.Just as it seems the Cazadores have Manu and her friends cornered, the Coven answers their call for help. As Manu catches her breath among these non-conforming Septimus, she discovers they need a revolution as much as she does. But is she the right one to lead them? After all, hybrids aren't just outlawed. They're feared and reviled. What happ

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Book SynopsisAn inspiring portrait of an immigrant and the gift he gave his new home.Persecuted as Jews, Izzy Baline and his family emigrated from Russia to New York, where he fell in love with his new country. He heard music everywhere and was full to bursting with his own. Izzy''s thump-two-three, ting-a-ling, whee tunes soon brought him acclaim as the sought-after songwriter Irving Berlin. He ignited the imaginations of fellow countrymen and women with his Broadway and Hollywood numbers, crafting tunes that have become classics we still sing today.But when darker times came and the nation went to war, it was time for Irving to compose a new kind of song:A boom-rah-rah song.A big brass belter.A loud heart-melter.A song for America.And so God Bless America was born, the heart swelling standard that Americans have returned to again and again after its 1918 composition.This is the tale of how a former refugee gave America one of its most celebr

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