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Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Jared Andrew Schorr

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In alphabetical order from A to Z, the author-illustrator team describes actions that thoughtful citizens can take to improve their communities, large and small. There are some allusions to historical protests like sports players taking a knee, but the simple direct text offers many opportunities to discuss the wide variety of ways people take action for what is right. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture Books about Responsible Citizenship

We Shall Overcome by Bryan Collier

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Collier's gorgeous illustrations adorn the pages next to the lyrics of the protest song, "We Shall Overcome." The illustrations depict historical events as well as scenes of the present. Endnotes give further information about essential protests that changed the course of history. Essential reading. Ages 3 and up.

The Boston Tea Party by Russell Freedman, illustrated by Peter Malone

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Let's not forget that the United States was founded in the spirit of protests and civil disobedience. Freedman's text and Malone's illustrations will teach kids about this important historical moment. I like how Freedman's choice of words and his attention to detail give an urgency to the events and the reader is reminded again and again that the Boston Tea Party was a result of anger over a perceived injustice. Ages 7 and up.

Rocket Says Speak Up! by Nathan Bryon, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

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Is there any cause more important than your local library? Rocket reminds us that when a library is threatened, we must do something! Rocket is a cheerful, determined protagonist. Spurred by reading a book about Rosa Parks, Rocket organizes a peaceful protest against library closures, and others rally to her cry. Ages 4 and up.

Noodlephant by by Jacob Kramer, illustrated by K-Fai Steele

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Elephant loves noodles and likes having his animal friends over for pasta parties! But the kangaroos, who make all the rules and thus hold all the power declare that pasta is only to be eaten by kangaroos. They declare that the other animals should eat sticks and branches instead. This simply won't do! In protest, Elephant and his friends invent a machine that turns ordinary objects into pasta! I love the clever wordplay and the sneaky subversiveness of the non-kangaroo animals to protest the unjust law. Of course, the marvelous conclusion reaffirms that injustice and inequality must always be challenged. Be sure to read the sequel, Okapi Tale! Ages 5 and up.

We March by Shane W. Evans

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This is one of my favorite books about protest marches. The spare text and brilliant illustrations make this a wonderful book for children as young as 3 years old. The light, first person narrative tells the story of a family getting ready to participate in the March on Washington. Illustrations depict crowds of people from all walks of life and celebrate the excitement the event generated, and the power of peaceful protest. Ages 3 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Martin Luther King, Jr.

Swimmy by Leo Lionni

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Swimmy is a classic picture book and you might be surprised to see it on a list of books about protest, but it fits right in. The tale is about how little fish join forces to fight off the big bully fish. However, the story also demonstrates that one can still be an individual, even when banding together with others in pursuit of a common goal. Ages 3 and up.

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Melissa Sweet

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Clara came to NYC dirt poor but full of grit. She worked a miserable, backbreaking job at a garment factory. An extraordinary individual, she taught herself to read and led the largest walkout of women workers in U.S. History, despite being beaten and jailed for participating in labor strikes. This is a valuable story of the history of women workers and the importance of fair labor practices and will still resonate today. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies about Women Activists

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara

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A board book that's not just for babies! With a fun sense of humor, this alphabet book introduces kids to the idea that life may not be all about acquiring the latest Thomas Train. The book teaches generosity, compassion, consideration for others. Use the book as a starting point for further discussions about the topics. Counting on Community is the companion book which turns a simple counting book into an inspiring call to action. Ages 2 and up.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of César Chávez by Kathleel Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morale

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This picture book biography begins with Chávez as a young boy, who was "not a fighter," and follows him as his family leaves Mexico during the drought. When they arrive in California ,the family experiences the hardship, racism and brutal treatment rained down on migrant workers. Chávez was roused to take action and organized a 340 mile peaceful protest march on behalf of farmworkers. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Books about the History of Labor

Smoky Night by Eve Bunting, illustrated by David Diaz

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Even Bunting wrote Smoky Night in response to the Los Angeles protests and riots in the wake of the Rodney King trials. It is a sensitive story about the effects of urban violence, but the real emphasis in on the importance of seeing the value of one's neighbors as individuals. Diaz's illustrations are gorgeous and evocative. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Social Justice Picture Books for Kids

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren, illustrated by Robert Casilla

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Warren portrays civil rights leader Dolores Huerta in her many roles, from teacher to parent to protester and more. Her strength and determination to help the farm workers inspired her her to help organize a strike so they could achieve better working conditions and fair treatment under the law. Endnotes supply further information. Ages 5 and up.

Dolores Huerta is one of the fearless women on our women cards coloring page!

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Betsy Lewin

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If you want to raise kids who won't let their future employers walk all over them, read them this modern classic about a group of determined barnyard animals who persevere to get what they want, despite a grumpy farmer. Ages 3 and up.

¡Sí, Se Puede! / Yes, We Can! by Diana Cohn

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Cohn's book is inspired by a real life janitor strike in 2000.  The story centers on Carlitos, whose mother is a night janitor who cleans a skyscraper in Los Angeles. I like the family touches, like when mama tucks Carlitos into bed every night before she goes to work. It personalizes the story so kids will be able to relate to the characters, even if they may never find themselves in a similar economic situation. Mama helps to organize the janitor strike, and a passionate Carlitos who "loves his mama" gets involved. A bilingual book. Ages 4 and up.

Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh

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Tonatiuh tells the story of school desegregation 10 years before Brown v. the Board of Education. In 1944, Sylvia's family moved to a new community. When she tried to attend school, she was told that she would have to go to "the Mexican school". Sylvia and her family fight back and eventually win a very important court battle, setting the stage for future desegregation cases. Ages 5 and up

MORE: Picture Books about The Civil Rights Movement

A Sweet Smell of Roses by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Eric Velasquez

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A young girl, with her red-ribboned teddy bear describes the experience as she and her sister slip out of their house to join a freedom march. The focus is very much on the sensory experience. They stand, "waist high" in the "bright light", "clapping in time with [their] feet." This is lovely book that emphases how children have been an integral part in civil disobedience and protest marches. Young readers will enjoy picking out the plucky protagonist in the illustrations by her bear's ribbon, which matches the stripes in the flag. Ages 4 and up.

Aani and the Tree Huggers by Jeannine Atkins

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In an event in 1970s India, villagers protested the cutting down of their venerated trees by holding on to them. In this story, Aani, a young girl, leads the fight to protect the trees from tree-cutters who have official orders to cut them down. The trees are a source of food, shelter and comfort for the villagers. This is an interesting book to talk to kids about the many forms of protest. It's not always a march or a strike. It could be—literally—tree-hugging. Ages 6 and up.

Which Side are You On? The Story of a Song by George Ella Lyon, Christopher Cardinale

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Florence Reese wrote the titular 1931 song and it's now a ballad sung worldwide in support of workers' rights. Florence's husband was a coal miner and the story of the coal miners' strike is told through the eyes of Florence's daughter. I recommend this book for ages 8 and up because of the depiction of the gun fire that was rained down on the miners. Nevertheless, it is an important story that deserves to be remembered. Ages 8 and up.

MORE: Books to Inspire Kids to Change the World

Elizabeth Started All the Trouble by Doreen Rappaport

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The book starts with a sort of prologue starring Abigail Adams who issues a warning to her husband that if women were not included in the new laws for the United States they would start their own revolution. The story then skips ahead to 1840 when Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott start that very revolution. I appreciated that the author included the voice of Sojourner Truth in the middle of the book because it is important to remember that Cady Stanton and the other suffragettes were not fighting for all women's right to vote. Ages 5 and up.

Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jerone Lagarrigue

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In 1960, four black college students sat down at the Woolworth's lunch counter, labelled "WHITES ONLY." The events are told from young Connie's perspective. She sips her soda while standing but her siblings become active in the lunch counter boycott and she helps them make signs. I like that the author still included Connie's youthful desire to just have a banana split, which she finally gets to do—while sitting. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Big List of African-American History Books for Kids

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

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Here's another story about the 1960 Greensboro lunch counter sit in. I liked this one because of the food metaphors. "At first they were treated like the hole in the doughnut—invisible." "The kids had a recipe, too. A new brew called integration." I love Pinkney's splendidly expressive illustrations, with their swirly lines and colors. Ages 5 and up.

Boycott Blues: How Rosa Parks Inspired a Nation by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

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Pinkney's book tells the story of how the African-American community walked for 382 days rather than ride the segregated busses in Montgomery, Alabama. The rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, which themselves appear to move beautifully capture the spirit of the amazing individuals who brought change to their community and the nation. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Check out all our book list topics in the book list index!

The post Children's Picture Books about Protest and Civil Disobedience appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Below are some wonderful picture books, poetry and novels to help children learn about, and remember the events of 9/11. Never Forget.

Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.

Picture Books

The following books offer a gentle introduction to the towers and the heroic efforts of first responders. At what age you want to start the discussion of 9/11 is a parental judgement call. I suggest parents preview the books and make their own determination.

To share the joys of New York City read the books on my list of picture books set in New York City. Children may also enjoy coloring in the skyline in this New York City coloring page created by NYC illustrator, Melanie Hope Greenberg.

Smoke at the Pentagon: Poems to Remember by Jacqueline Jules, illustrated by Eszter Anna Rácz

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This beautiful book is a collection of twenty poems written from the point of view of students in the Arlington, Virginia and the Pentagon communities, who lived through 9/11. The poems are arranged chronologically with the first poem revealing a child's observations when her teacher reads the news in an email to the final poem, which describes seeing the 9/11 memorial. A unique book which will allows readers to contemplate the way large events effect small moments in our lives. Here's a teacher's guide to using the book. Ages 7 and up.

Branches of Hope: The 9/11 Survivor Tree by Ann Magee, illustrated by Nicole Wong

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There are a few books about a Callery pear tree that survived the attack on the twin towers and this title is a lovely way to approach a conversation about the tragic events that unfolded on 9/11. The story follows the path of one NYC family before, during and after 9/11. Both the tree and the family grow and change, symbolizing the continuation of life and the determined spirit of both humanity and nature. Ages 5 and up.

This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth by Sean Rubin

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This is the story of the Callery pear tree that survived the attack, told from its point of view. The tree details life before, during and after 9/11,. It describes it's place in the natural world as a place of refuge for animals and a sign of spring along with its transfer to Bronx and then its return home. The message is quiet, comforting and one of hope and regeneration. Ages 4 and up.

For yet another book about the Callery pear tree read: Survivor Tree by Marcie Colleen, illustrated by Aaron Becker.

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

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This stunning book tells the story of funambulist (there's your word of the day!) Philippe Petit's 1974 feat. The dizzying views and magnificent skyline in the illustrations is accompanied by a poetic and spare text. The book ends with an acknowledgement that the towers are no longer standing, but the overall tone of the book is optimistic and a tribute to both the towers and the daring ingenuity of Petit. Ages 4 and up.

Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey by Maira Kalman

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A look at the history of a single fireboat offers an entry point for discussion about the events of 9/11 for young children. The focus is on the first responders and, as Mr. Rogers put it, "the helpers." The John J. Harvey fireboat was saved from the scrapheap in 1995, when fireboats were no longer used to fight fires. But then 9/11 happened and the John J. Harvey was called into action. Ages 5 and up.

14 Cows for America by Carmen Agra Deedy and Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah, illustrated by Thomas Gonzales

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This true story of kindness reminds readers of the goodness in the world. After studying in the US to be a doctor, Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah returns home to Kenya where he tells of the tragic events he witnessed when he was in New York on September 11. In the tradition of the Maasai people, Naiyomah asks for his cow to be blessed as an offering to the hurting Americans. His request prompts others to follow and a traditional ceremony is held for fourteen cows. The illustrations are gorgeous. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture Books about Kindness

America Is Under Attack: September 11, 2001: The Day the Towers Fell by Don Brown

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Brown's informational picture book about September 11 is straightforward and sensitive in its retelling of the events. Brown tells the story with detail, including quotes from eye witnesses and first responders. Simple but powerful watercolor illustrations are the perfect accompaniment. Bibliography included; ages 7 and up (preview text if concerned about content).

Chapter Books

Ranger in Time: Escape from the Twin Towers by Kate Messner, illustrated by Kelley McMorris

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The Ranger in Time series centers on a time traveling golden retriever with search and rescue training. It's that training which comes in handy when he travels back to September 2001. In this story, Ranger helps a girl who goes with her mom to the twin towers, but is separated from her during the attacks. Ages 7 and up.

I Survived the Attacks of September 11th, 2001 by Lauren Tarshis, illustrated by Scott Dawson

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The I Survived series is popular with late elementary school-aged kids. In each book the protagonists face a dangerous historical moment but gain strength and confidence surviving the events. The series is full of facts and appeals especially to reluctant readers. In this installment, Lucas finds himself at the firehouse with his Uncle Benny when the attack on the World Trade Center occurs. Lucas, Benny and his father assist with the rescue efforts. Ages 8 and up.

MORE: Survival stories for middle grade readers

Middle Grade Books

Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero by Saadia Faruqi

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Twelve-year-old, Pakistani-American, Yusuf lives in a small town in Texas. He's excited about sixth grade and competing in a robotics competition. However, it's the 20th anniversary of 9/11, racist bullies are leaving notes in his locker, and some in the community are protesting against a local mosque. When Yusuf's teacher assigns the students to write about 9/11, Yusuf turns to his uncle's diary from that time. A thoughtful portrayal of the ways communities deal with prejudice, anger and identity. Ages 10 and up.

Ground Zero by Alan Gratz

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Two voices tell their stories in alternating chapters. On the morning of September 11, 2001, Brandon accompanies his father to work at the restaurant, Windows on the World. When the planes hit the towers, Brandon is on a lower level and is separated from his father. In Afghanistan, September 11, 2020, Reshmina hopes that she can one day put her education to use and be part of a peaceful country. When her village is attacked she helps a wounded US soldier. Both children struggle with loss, pain and while the ending offers no easy answers, the story is moving, fast paced and unputdownable. Ages 9 and up.

Broken Strings by Eric Walters and Kathy Kacer

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Shirli loves acting and singing. She gets a part in the school production of Fiddler on the Roof, and even though it is not the role she wanted, she throws herself into it. Shirli regularly visits her grandfather, a Holocaust survivor. One day, Shirli finds a violin in his attic, which is odd, as she understands her grandfather never wants to listen music. Slowly Shirli learns her grandfather's dark story, and when the musical production loses its director, Shirli's grandfather takes up his violin once again. The action of this story takes place in the wake of 9/11 and the characters reflect upon the current state of racial and religious prejudice in their community. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Middle Grade Books with Jewish Protagonists

Throwback (series) by Peter Lerangis

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Throwback is the first book in a time travel series. Corey Fletcher is a secret time traveler, or "Throwback," who uses a metal object from any era in order to travel back to that specific time. He wonders if he is actually a legendary Throwback who has the power to fix past events so he travels back to 2001 in an attempt to save his grandmother who died on 9/11. However, he then finds himself unexpectedly in 1917 and another traveler makes the journey to 9/11. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Books about time travel

Somewhere Among by Annie Donwerth-Chikamatsu, illustrated by Sonia Chaghatzbanian

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This year, Ema is not going to spend summer in California, as usual. She and her mother, who is experiencing a difficult pregnancy, will be moving in with Ema's grandparents in Japan. Ema looks forward to meeting her baby sister but she is confused by her grandmother's strict rules and cold manner. But then, the terrorist attack occurs in her mother's home country, and illness befalls the family at home. The events help Ema understand her grandmother better and she witnesses her kindness. Donwerth-Chikamatsu uses verse to tell this lovely story of survival and learning. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Memoirs for Children Written in Verse

Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story by Nora Raleigh Baskin

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Four children, an African-American boy, a Muslim-American girl, a Jewish girl, and a white boy are all at Chicago's O'Hare airport on September 11, 2001. All of them are touched in different and personal ways by the terrorist attacks. Baskin tells their stories in the days before 9/11 as well as after. The telling of these four interconnected stories is emotional and often tense, but it is extremely moving. Ages 10 and up.

Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes

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Fifteen years after September 11, 2001, fifth grader, Dèja Barnes, goes to a school in NYC with a diverse student population. Her teacher has a lesson plan for teaching the class about 9/11 but Dèja doesn't like to think about history or the past. She has enough to worry about while her family is living in a homeless shelter. She and two other classmates, Ben and Sabeen, work together on the project, and in doing so, learn not just about history, but about themselves and their community. Ages 9 and up.

Shooting Kabul by N. H. Senza

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After Fadi's father is pressured by the Taliban, the family claims asylum and moves to San Francisco. Horrifyingly, on the way over the border to Pakistan, Fadi's six year old sister is lost in the chaos. Fadi feels responsible and enters a photography contest in the hopes of winning a trip to India, where he thinks he can cross into Pakistan to search for her. A few months after moving, September 11 happens and Fadi feels the changes in the dynamic of the community and his school. Although Fadi doesn't win the contest, his photography efforts lead to a reunion with his lost sister. Ages 10 and up.

MORE: Middle Grade Books with Muslim Protagonists

The post Never Forget: Children's Books About 9/11 appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

You can use these books as tools to help you talk about your kids' fears or reluctance to plunge into the unknown, but all of them have one thing in common: they are just great stories.

Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.

Books about Trying Something New

ME AND THE BOSS: A STORY ABOUT MENDING AND LOVE by Michelle Edwards, illustrated by April Harrison

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When I saw the author and illustrator's names attached to this book, I ran to pick up a copy. I was not disappointed. Lee accompanies his older sister, Zora (aka "the boss") to a library program where the children learn to sew. Lee watches his sister sew a flower, but he struggles to make a stitch. He takes his materials home and practices and practices until he gets it right. I absolutely adored this book and it's pitch perfect representation of sibling love and relationships. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Perseverance

IF I NEVER FOREVER ENDEAVOR by Holly Meade

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Spreading one's wings and leaving the parental nest is the classic metaphor for taking a risk. This is a wonderful book about the transformative experiences that come as a result of being willing to find the courage to try something new. The bird sits in his nest, contemplating his options, weighing the benefits of security against the possibilities of flight and what he will miss if he doesn't try. He finds his strength from within, proclaiming, "If in all of forever, I never endeavor to fly, I won't know if I can." Ages 4 and up.

THE PINK REFRIGERATOR by Tim Egan

Find it: Your Library

I love Tim Egan's series of early readers about Dodsworth's adventures around the world but didn't realize he had written a picture book about what prompted Dodsworth to start off on his trip. Dodsworth finds a mysterious pink refrigerator in a junk yard. Each day the note on the fridge sports a new suggestion, like "read more", "make pictures", or "play music". Inside the fridge he finds the materials he needs: books, art supplies, a trumpet, etc. The final note, "keep exploring" prompts Dodsworth to leave his own note, "Went to find an ocean." This is a great story about the willingness to be open to trying new things.  Ages 4 and up.

MORE: 50 Books to Take You on a Trip around the World

THE OLDEST STUDENT: HOW MARY WALKER LEARNED TO READ by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, illustrated by Oge Mora

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If your children need a bit of motivation to try something new, introduce them to Mary Walker. This brilliantly illustration biography of a woman, born enslaved and lived through the Civil Rights Movement, who learned to read at the age of 116 (not a typo!), will teach everyone that it's never too late to learn a new skill. Ages 5 and up.

ABDUL'S STORY by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Tiffany Rose

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Any child who has faced a challenge in school, while watching their classmates perform a skill with ease will relate to Abdul's story. Abdul loves to tell stories but he struggles with writing. He letters never look the way they are supposed to and it takes so much energy out of him, he feels frustrated. During a class visit, an author shows Abdul his own messy notebook and Abdul tray a new way to turn his own writing, imperfect though it may be, into a story. Ages 4 and up.

BILAL COOKS DAAL by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by Anoosha Syed

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I adore this picture book even more than I enjoy a delicious bowl of daal. Bilal is so excited to make daal with his dad! His friends have never tried daal and they join him in the anticipation of eating the deliciousness. Food has a way of bringing people together, right? He explains to his diverse group of friends that the slow-cooked lentil dish takes lots of patience as well as lots of yummy ingredients. Ages 4 and up.

HAIR LOVE by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

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This wonderful picture book shows that dads can try new things too! Zuri's dad can problem solve, fix hair and bond with his daughter all at the same time. Zuri's hair "has a mind of its own," and she needs help. Lucky for her, dad steps up to the plate. After a few failed tries, Zuri shows him the products and the how-to video he needs to get things right. When mom comes home, she is mighty impressed. Joyful! You can also watch the Oscar-winning short film of Hair Love on YouTube here. Ages 4 and up.

THE MAGICAL YET by Angela DiTerlizzi, illustrated by Lorena Alvarez

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

As a parent or educator, you may be familiar with the advice to teach kids the power of "yet." The Magical Yet encourages children who might be struggling to harness their determination. They might feel they can't do something, but add a single word, "yet" to an "I can't" sentence and they can transform their attitude and encourage them to try new things! I love the vivid illustrations and the optimistic, bouncy rhythm of the text. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture Books that Teach a Positive Attitude

A SMALL THING... BUT BIG by Tony Johnston, illustrated by Hadley Hooper

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This is a great book for kids who have a fear of dogs. At the park, Lizzie meets an elderly gentleman walking a dog. Lizzie has a fear of dogs and the gentleman is timid around children. As the man encourages Lizzie to get to know Cecil, the dog, Lizzie starts to gain courage and self-confidence. After all, it may seem like a small thing to walk a dog, but to Lizzie… it's big! Ages 4 and up.

EVERYONE CAN LEARN TO RIDE A BICYCLE by Chris Raschka

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Raschka's simple text and expressive illustrations take us on a journey of a girl just learning to ride a bike. Despite several -- or a dozen -- falls, she continues to pick herself up, dust herself off, and try again, and again, until…. success.  Ages 4 and up.

THE DOT by Peter H. Reynolds

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Vashti insists she can't draw, but her art teacher encourages her to make just one dot and see what happens. Well, what happens is a marvelous adventure. This book is a great reminder not to discount the power of self-expression and to stop worrying about "standards of art" and instead just try it!  Ages 4 and up.

THE OTHER SIDE by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

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This is one of the most touching books about the payoff for taking risks and making new friends. A fence, both metaphorical and physical, defines the boundary between Annie's white family and Clover's African-American one. Clover's mom has told her not to cross the fence because it is unsafe. Instead, Clover sits on the fence, watching the other girl play. Annie eventually approaches Clover and the two sides begin talking, a friendship is formed and the fence, finally crossed. The final image of a line of girls sitting on the fence points to the idea that the very act of trying something new (in this case making a new friend despite the pressures not to) can lead to profound social change. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Favorite Caldecott Books

I WILL NEVER NOT EVER EAT A TOMATO by Lauren Child

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Lola is a super picky eater. Her big sister, Charlie, tries to "play a trick" and rename all the food items on Lola's plate. Mashed potatoes become cloud fluff from Mt Fuji, carrots are orange twiglets from Jupiter, etc. The new edible items are so intriguing Lola can't help but try them. But will she eat the "round red moonsquirter?" You'll just have to read the book to find out. Ages 3 and up.

YOKO by Rosemary Wells

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Yoko take sushi to school for her lunch but when the other kids tease her the teacher decides to have an international day. Each child brings in a dish from another country for the class to try. Once again, however, the kids reject Yoko's sushi, except for Timothy. Timothy is so hungry he even tries the sushi, which he find to be quite delicious thankyouverymuch and he and Yoko forge a new friendship over trying new things. Ages 3 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Kindness

A KITTEN TALE by Eric Rohmann

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Sometimes you need the encouragement of seeing your friends try something first. Rohmann's book is a cute story of four kittens who are anticipating their first snow. Three of them are nervous and ponder all the negative aspects of the cold, wet, white stuff, but the fourth, "can't wait!" When snow finally comes, the fourth kitten rushes out and his joy over his first snow experience encourages the others to follow. Ages 3 and up.

CHESTER'S WAY by Keven Henkes

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Chester and Wilson are best friends. They do everything together and everything the same. They are quite set in their ways. When the indomitable Lily moves into the neighborhood they initially look at her askance, but Lily's bravery turns their heads and they find themselves trying new ways of doing things. Ages 4 and up.

ROLLER COASTER by Marla Frazee

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Life is a bit like a roller coaster, yes? There is anticipation, excitement, dips, rises, plunges, climbs, twists, and turns. Some people aren't brave enough and turn away, others are just tall enough to ride. The story focuses on a young girl taking her first roller coaster ride and all that comes with it.  Illustrator Frazee is so gifted at depicting people, and her character's facial expressions make the book truly enjoyable. Ages 4 and up.

SAMANTHA ON A ROLL by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Christine Davenier

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Here's a story about a girl who can't wait to try something new! She longs to lace on her skates and hit the pavement, but her mom is not ready yet.  Samantha decides to go for it anyway and experiences the first thrill of a new experience. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Growth Mindset Books for Kids

SERGIO MAKES A SPLASH by Edel Rodriguez

Find it: Your Library

Both my sons giggled at the idea that a penguin could love water but still be afraid of swimming. His swim teacher, Mrs. Waddle gives him some gentle encouragement and Sergio finally takes the plunge (so to speak). Even though my almost 5 and almost 9 year olds (never too old for picture books!) enjoyed this, I think its straightforward plot and gentle humor make it a great choice for preschoolers. Ages 3 and up.

The post Children's Books about Trying New Things appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

More: UNICEF's 8 tips on how to talk to children about war.

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Would you like a printable list to take with you to the library? You can get one at the bottom of this post!

HOW WAR CHANGED RONDO

Find it: Enchanted Lion - Yes, you can find Rondo at other stores. However, all proceeds from purchases of the book made through Enchanted lion benefit UNICEF in Ukraine.

This oversized book from a Ukrainian creative team will spark many conversations about the damage war inflicts on hearts and minds and how communities can rally. In Rondo, everything is wonderful. Danko, a glowing, transparent being, Zirka, a paper bird and Fabian, a balloon dog, love living in their peaceful town. But one day, war comes and the inhabitants feel powerless to stop it. Nothing seems to halt the destruction. Then the town builds a huge light machine that defeats war's darkness. Rondo is rebuilt and red poppies spring up. Ages 5 and up.

THE WAR by Anaïs Vaugelade

Find it: Amazon | Your library

The Red and Blue armies are at war, the reason long forgotten. Prince Fabian of the Blues brings about a terrible accident, angering his father. Distressed at the futility of efforts to stop the fighting, Fabian writes a letter to each side, claiming to be the leader the Yellows and challenging them to meet the Yellow army on the battlefield. When the Reds and the Blues show up, but find no Yellows to fight, the opposing sides realize their foolishness. Ages 5 and up.

THE TIGER WHO WOULD BE KING by James Thurber, illustrated by JooHee Yoon

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Thurber's timeless fable is given a new life with wonderful illustrations by JooHee Yoon. Tiger wakes up one morning and declares that he is the king of beasts. He doesn't listen when the other animals tell him, no, Lion is the king. Instead, he goes to Lion's cave and makes his announcement. All of the animals take part in the ensuing battle until only Tiger is left. Thurber ends with the moral, “You can’t very well be king of beasts if there aren’t any." Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Peace

WAR by Nikolai Popov

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This wordless book from Russian author and illustrator Popov demonstrates how wars are begun over small moments that turn into massive disasters. A frog sits contently on a rock with a flower. A jealous mouse seizes the flower and the conflict begins with frogs battling mice in tanks made from boots. By the end of the book, the landscape is devastated and with the frog on his rock and the mouse back in his spot, the message is clear. The war was fought for nothing. Nothing was solved and no one benefitted. Ages 4 and up. Note: some reviewers on Amazon indicate they received an edition with text. The original book is wordless, and is what I got from my library.

Living in a War Zone

These picture books will start a conversation with your children about how residents find strength, hope and resilience when their lives are thrown into turmoil and they are forced to live with constant uncertainty and fear.

WHAT THE KITE SAW by Anne Laurel Carter, illustrated by Akin Duzakin

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In a town occupied by hostile soldiers and tanks, a child, his mother and younger sibling are left behind when his father and brother are off fighting. The child narrates life in an occupied city, wondering when he will be able to see his father again. His movements are limited but he gets an idea and he and his friends make kites to fly above the city as symbols of hope. As the kites fly, the child imagines flying himself, and seeing his father and brother. Ages 5 and up.

THE CAT MAN OF ALEPPO by Karim Shamsi-Basha and Irene Latham, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

In war-torn Syria, Alaa stays behind to help, even though his friends and family have fled the city of Aleppo in search of safety. Alaa wants to help others. He works as an ambulance driver and one day he notices the city's hungry and thirsty cats. He begins to feed them, but can't afford to help them all by himself. When others hear of Alaa's goodness they send donations, and come to assist him. His act of kindness leads to more acts. He helps build a playground, digs a well and distributes food. A beautiful, positive story, based on a true story. The endnotes include words from the real Mohammad Alaa Aljalee. Ages 5 and up.

THE LIBRARIAN OF BASRA

by Jeanette Winter

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This is a powerful tale based on a true story about courage and determination in the face of terrible circumstances. War comes to Iraq and threatens to destroy Alia’s precious library collection, including rare editions, at Central Library in Basra. But Alia does not run. Instead, she bravely works to move 30,000 volumes to safety in her home and the homes of friends and families. Ages 5 and up.

A BOWL FULL OF PEACE by Caren Stelson, illustrated by Akira Kusaka

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This is an incredibly moving true story that speaks to the experience of living through war and surviving the aftermath. Grandmother's bowl sits full of food on the Yasui family table. The bowl is passed from mother to daughter, its exact origin unknown. Sachiko describes living through the war in Nagasaki, watching the contents of the bowl get smaller and smaller until the family must flee their home. Returning in the aftermath, Sachiko's father miraculously finds the bowl, unharmed, in the piles of rubble. The family now fills the bowl to remember the lost and give thanks for peace.

Soliders

We hail soldiers as heroes, but it's also important to share the non-glamorous reality of life on the front lines.

PATROL: AN AMERICAN SOLDIER IN VIETNAM by Walter Dean Myers, illustrated by Ann Grifalconi

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Grifalconi's collage style illustrations adorn the pages of Myers' moving poem about a soldier working his way through an active war zone in the jungles of Vietnam. The solider waits, hidden in the jungle, gripped by fear, his mind racing. The poem reveals the solider's thoughts in the moment and the first person, present-tense narration is powerful. A necessary read aloud for ages 8 and up.

THE ELEVENTH HOUR by Jacques Goldstyn

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Parents, get ready to have a tissue handy, this book does not have a happy ending. Neither does war, frankly. Jim and Jules were born were born on the same day in the same village. They grew up together, the best of friends, despite their different personalities. When the draft hits, they march off to war together. But they do not return together. The narrative is straight forward, and much of the emotional content is conveyed through the illustrations. The timing of Jim's death was rather shocking to me, and hits home the cruelty of war. This may seem like too serious for kids, but it is an exceedingly good book. Ages 7 to infinity.

Fleeing War

THE DAY WAR CAME by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Rebecca Cobb

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This moving story starts with children attending school on an ordinary day. Their daily lives are interrupted with the chaos of the sudden attacks of war. Davies' prose is poetic, with first person narration by a child who watches her world change in an instant. The child flees but feels the war "under her skin." When she finds a new classroom, another child helps her find room to join them. Ages 6 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Refugees

YAMO'S VILLAGE SERIES (trilogy) by Yutaka Kobayashi

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Kobayashi's trilogy chronicles the transformation and recovery of a village beset by war. The three picture books are The Most Beautiful Village in the World, The Circus comes to the Village, and Return to the Most Beautiful Village in the World. The first book introduces us to Yamo's Afghan village. Yamo helps his father sell fruit at the market while his brother is off fighting. In the second book, a circus comes to Yamo's village. Young Mirado, his father off at war, plays a flute and the circus invites him to tour with them. Yamo tells him to go, suggesting he might see his father on the way. In the final installment, Mirado hears that war might have left his village, and he walks across the country to get back home. When he arrives, the village has been devastated but he also reunites with Yamo and the two boys hope for a different future. Ages 5 and up.

Waiting on the Home Front

War can happen in our own backyard, but even when it takes place far away, loved ones left at home must also endure hardship, longing and endless waiting.

CAPTAIN ROSALIE by Timothée de Fombelle, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault

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During World War I, with her father at the front and her mother at work, a 5-year-old girl sits in a classroom and imagines herself on a secret mission for the war effort. Her mother reads her part of her father's letters and they sound hopeful. But when Rosalie's mission is successful and she is able to read the letters on her own, she discovers the truth. This book will spark conversations about the realities of war and the experiences of individuals both at home and at the front. Ages 8 and up.

AT THE MOUNTAIN'S BASE by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

I adored the artwork in this tranquil picture book. Each page reveals an intimate scene contained by a continuous multi-colored string. The spare but calming text tells the story tells the story of a Native American woman serving in the military in World War II and the family that waits for her. An author's note reveals Sorell was inspired by pilot Ola Mildred Rexroat (an Oglala Lakota citizen), the only Native American Air Force service pilot in WWII. You can watch a recording of Sorell reading her book here. Ages 4 and up.

The post Children's Books about War appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

It's not easy growing up in such an environment and while parents can help control some of the messaging, girls and boys also need to develop a sense of self-worth, no matter what their body type.

By reading stories about others learning to accept themselves no matter what, kids can help themselves develop a healthy body image, or "body positivity." This list of fantastic middle grade books will help.

Note: This post contains affiliate links that may earn commission. While we encourage you to patronize your library and local bookstore, should you choose to purchase books online, consider Bookshop. Bookshop supports independent booksellers. For your convenience, I've curated this list of body positivity books at Bookshop here.

Want a pdf version of this list? You can grab it at the end of the post.

THE SECOND LIFE OF ABIGAIL WALKER by Frances O'Roark Dowell

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Abigail gets teased for her weight at school, nagged about diets by her parents and she is tired of it. Abigail is fine with her body and when she stands up for herself, she experiences further rejection by her classmates. Later, she meets Anders, a homeschooled boy whose father is an Iraq veteran struggling with finding peace. A somewhat magical storyline about a fox entwines with Abigail's journey as she finds new contentment. Fantastic. Ages 9 and up.

KARMA KHULLAR'S MUSTACHE by Kristi Wientge

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Karmajeet Khullar is going to be starting middle school soon, but she is worried about the 17 new dark hairs on her upper lip. She is anxious to get the help and advice from her best friend, but she has been acting so different lately and Karma feels lost. Karma's Indian father is learning how to be a stay at home dad, and her white mother is very busy with work. The book addresses themes of middle school friendships and bullying and I love how Karma's interfaith Sikh-Methodist household plays an integral role in her journey. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Hair

BRACED by Alyson Gerber

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Braced is based on Gerber's own experience growing up with scoliosis. Seventh grader, Rachel, is an enthusiastic soccer player but this year her doctor tells her she must wear a corrective brace for her scoliosis for 23 hours a day. Understandably, she is devastated by this. Rachel's journey to acceptance of her condition is touching and relatable as she works through relationships with her classmates and mother. An excellent read. Ages 9 and up.

Also highly recommended: Alyson Gerber's book, Taking Up Space about a middle schooler dealing with self-esteem over body image and an eating disorder.

LILY AND DUNKIN by Donna Gephart

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This is a marvelously written story told in alternating voices. Lily Jo knows she is a girl, but most of the world knows her as Tim. She has the support of her mom, sister and best friend but Lily needs the love and support of her father in order to gain the confidence (and medication) she needs. Dunkin is the new kid in town but he has a secret. He struggles to come to terms with his bipolar disorder and find out where he fits in, too. Lily Jo may have body image challenges that most kids won't experience, but her journey, as well as Dunkin's, to express herself, find her own way and make the right friends will resonate will all middle schoolers. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Books for tweens with LGBTQ+ characters

STARFISH by Lisa Flipps

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Ellie is tired of being bullied about her weight. It's bad enough coming from her peers, but her mother also doesn't seem to accept her for who she is. Ellie is about to start sixth grade and her best friend has moved away. When Catalina moves in next door, she befriends Ellie and, as a person of color, understands what it's like to be judged by what you look like. Flipps writes Ellie's story in verse, mirroring Ellie's own use of poetry to express herself. A very satisfying story. Ages 9 and up.

SHORT by Holly Goldberg Sloan

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I loved this book! Julia is short for her age and one summer she lands a role in a local production of The Wizard of Oz. While playing the part of a munchkin, she befriends several adults with dwarfism as well as her artistic neighbor, Mrs. Chang, who just happens to be a whiz at costuming. Through her new friendships and performing experience, Julia's world bursts wide open. Ages 9 and up.

ALL OF ME by Chris Baron

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Written in verse, All of Me is the story of Ari, a Jewish boy is struggling with his body image. He is also preparing for his bar mitzvah and dealing with his parents' difficult relationship. Baron's book digs deep into Ari's frustrations, fears and negative self-image as he must come to terms with how he sees himself and his place in the world. Incredibly moving. Ages 9 and up.

Also recommended: Baron's The Magical Imperfect

WINK by Rob Harrell

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Harrell's tender story about a boy dealing with a rare eye cancer is peppered with fantastic illustrations. Seventh grader, Ross, is worried about how cancer will change his body, as well as the way others see him. He wears a cowboy hat to disguise the permanent wink the cancer has caused. He also feels anger at his condition and at the friend who abandoned him. But Ross's story isn't depressing, Harrell's writing is amusing and readers, no matter what their medical history, will relate to Ross. Ages 9 and up.

GENESIS BEGINS AGAIN by Alicia D. Williams

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

This poignant book looks at a host of issues as they concern the thoughtful, intelligent 13-year-old Genesis. Genesis is concerned that her skin is "too dark." She believes her family and society value lighter brown skin over hers to the point that she attempts harmful actions to try and lighten her skin with lemons and bleach. At home, her father can't stop spending the rent money on gambling and alcohol. But Genesis has started a new school in a "better neighborhood" and meets new friends and teachers who help her learn to value herself. Highly recommended! Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Middle grade books by Black authors

INSIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF A CACTUS (series) by Dusti Bowling

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This funny and moving book is fantastic. Aven Green and her family move from Kansas to Arizona, where her dad has taken a job as the manager of a western theme park. Aven was born without any arms but that hasn't stopped her from accomplishing anything–she just does it with her feet! Aven narrates her own tale with a humorous, clever and truth-telling eye. With the help of her new friends, she sets out to solve a mystery and learn the secrets of Stagecoach Park. Ages 9 and up.

DEAR SWEET PEA by Julie Murphy

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Sweet Pea's divorced parents live next door to each other in an effort to co-parent their daughter. Sweet Pea acknowledges that she is a little "plump." While Sweet Pea's friendships are undergoing a transition, a neighbor asks her to look after her mail. The neighbor is an advice columnist and Sweet Pea can't resist answering a few of the letters. Understandably, she gets into a bit of a pickle! Funny and heartwarming. Ages 9 and up.

ROLL WITH IT by Jamie Sumner

Find it: Amazon |Bookshop

Ellie loves to bake! Her cerebral palsy means her mom is a bit overprotective, and that she has to spend more time than she would like with doctors. Ellie's grandfather has Alzheimer’s disease and so Ellie and her mom move in with her grandparents to help out. Starting a new school means Ellie finally finds some good friends and feels like she fits in somewhere. Roll With It is a marvelous book, tackling so many themes, but with good humor and likable characters. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Children's books about medical challenges

MAYBE HE JUST LIKES YOU by Barbara Dee

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Like many of Judy Blume's books, Dee's book address a difficult, but necessary topic. The boys in Mila's seventh grade class are harassing her, making unwanted comments and touching her in a way that makes her feel uncomfortable. Some of her peers think she is overreacting, and Mila doesn't know what to do. With the help of a karate class and a new friend, she gains the confidence she needs to address the situation head on. Few children's books address the subject of sexual harassment, but most girls have experienced in one form or another. Maybe He Just Likes You should be required reading for both girls and boys. Ages 9 and up.

MARTIN MCLEAN, MIDDLE SCHOOL QUEEN by Alyssa Zaczek

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Seventh grader, Martin McLean, is trying to figure out where he fits in. He loves being on the Mathletes team and he embraces his mixed race, Afro-Cuban and white, identity. He's particularly close with his Tío Billy, who supports Martin's desire to enter a drag queen contest. Now that Martin has found a way to express himself he wants to figure out a way to tell his friends. This is a wonderful, readable story which presents diverse racial, cultural and gender identities in a positive light. Ages 9 and up.

The post Books for Tweens that Encourage a Healthy Body Image appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

It can be hard for children to speak up, especially if they haven't had good role models. Throughout history, terrible events have taken place because people stayed quiet. Use these children's books about standing up for others to start a conversation about what it means to speak up and support others.

Note: this post contains affiliate links that may earn commission.

We support local book stores and libraries. The good news, is that if you choose to purchase books online, you can still support local, independent booksellers through Bookshop. I've curated this book list with my others lists of picture books about meaningful values at Bookshop here.

I WALK WITH VANESSA by Kerascoët

Find it: Bookshop|Amazon

This lovely title is a wordless book about the power of kindness and its role in creating friendships. New girl, Vanessa, is being bullied by a schoolmate. Another girl sees this happen and after some thought decides to walk with Vanessa to school. Soon they are joined by others and the bully retreats. I love how this simple book can start an important conversation about how being the first person to do the right thing can help others to find the courage to follow. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture books about kindness

SPARKLE BOY by Lesléa Newman, illustrated by Maria Mola

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Casey loves all things that sparkle. Yes, he loves to play with trucks and blocks, but when he sees sparkly skirts and jewelry he wants those too. The grownups are all accepting and let Casey be himself, but his sister Jesse is skeptical and insists that sparkly stuff is not for boys. However, one day at the library when another child teases him, Jesse stands up for her brother. Sometimes it takes a while for a child to find their voice, but this book shows that it's never too late. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture books that challenge gender stereotypes

SOMETHING GOOD by Marcy Campbell, illustrated by Corinna Luyken

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

When "something bad" is written on the school's bathroom walls, the teacher gathers the students together to try and discover who wrote it. No one confesses and some of the girls sneak into the bathroom to see what was written. Seeing the words makes them feel worse. (Readers do not find out what was written.) The uncertainty of not knowing who wrote them and if there will be consequences creates some stress on the students but slowly they come together to create art and poems to cover the "something bad" with "something good." The story addresses complex issues and emotions and is an essential book for starting conversations. Ages 5 and up.

RED AND GREEN, BLUE AND WHITE by Lee Wind, illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This picture book is based on a 1993 incident in Billings, Montana. In a neighborhood adorned with red and green lights, one house stands out with its blue and white lights. Isaac's family celebrates Hanukkah and his friend, Teresa, who lives across the street celebrates Christmas. After Isaac's house is targeted in an anti-semitic attack, Isaac's family continues to light the menorah rather than hide. In solidarity, Teresa draws a menorah and places it in her window. The paper menorah becomes a catalyst for community solidarity. Includes author's note about the real life events. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Anti-bias picture books for children

SUPER MANNY STANDS UP by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Manny puts on a different cape every day after school and his imagination takes him to places where he plays the superhero, saving the world from cloud monsters and alien robots. However, one day at school a classmate starts to bully others. Manny realizes he always wears an invisible cape that gives him the courage to stand up to real life bullies, too. Ages 3 and up.

MORE: Picture books about being brave

EACH KINDNESS by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

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Woodson's poignant book asks reads to consider the impact of what happens when you don't stand up for others.

New girl, Maya, finds herself alone at school. Her obvious poverty sets her apart and the other children reject her overtures of friendship, giving into their own biases. Chloe narrates the action and the way the other children reject Maya, including her own admission, “She’s not my friend.” One day, their teacher drops a stone into a bowl of water to demonstrate how powerful the ripples from a single act of kindness can be. “Even small things count,” she says. Chloe decides that the next day she will be kind to Maya, but Maya never returns to school and Chloe regrets that she never grabbed her chance to do the right thing, an important lesson. Ages 5 and up.

SAY SOMETHING by Peter H. Reynolds

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Reynolds' book aims to teach children to realize that their voice can change the world. Each illustration inspires kids to "say something," in a different way. They can say something to stand up to bullies, say something when they see an injustice, say something with art or with community action. The text is simple but effective and will start a conversation with children about all the different ways they can stand up for themselves and for others. Ages 4 and up.

MY NAME IS BILAL by Asma Mobin-Uddin, illustrated by Barbara Kiwak

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The current political climate demonstrates that children who are different from the mainstream have every reason to worry about being bullied. We must teach our kids that it is not okay to single out a specific ethnic or religious minority for ridicule and that they have the strength to bravely stand up to prejudice! After someone pulls off his sister's headscarf, Bilal worries that maybe he should hide the fact that he his Muslim from his classmates. His compassionate teacher gives him a book about a brave Muslim named Bilal and Bilal decides to stand up for his sister, earning the respect of his peers. Ages 6 and up.

SPEAK UP by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Ebony Glenn

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Like Reynolds' book, Say Something, Miranda Paul addresses all the ways kids can speak up, not just for others, but for themselves and for what's right. I like how the rhyming text relays very specific examples of how to be an upstander. Kids are encouraged to "speak up" to stop hurtful rumors, to help someone feel less lonely, to tell an adult when they hear a "scary secret," and to join forces with others to work as a group to demand justice for others. After reading this book, kids will want to discuss ways they've learned how to "speak up," too. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture books for kids who want to change the world

STRICTLY NO ELEPHANTS by Lisa Mantchevby, illustrated by Taeeun Yoo

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

In this popular picture book about the rewards of standing up for one's friends, a boy brings his elephant to a Pet Club. When he arrives, he finds out that his pet friend is not welcome. However, he refuses to go along with the exclusionary group and remains loyal to his pet. Instead forms an alternative club with other children whose unusual pet friends have been similarly rejected. Ages 3 and up.

The post 10 Children's Books about Standing Up for Others appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Note: this post contains affiliate links that may earn commission

Because these books draw attention to the difficult situation so many children find themselves in, they encourage compassion for others. I hope you will read them to your own children, even if they have not been personally touched by incarceration or detention.

I recommend finding books at your local library. If you purchase books online you can support independent booksellers through Bookshop. You can find this list curated at Bookshop.

Picture Books about Incarceration

Mango Moon

by Diane de Anda, illustrated by Sue Cornelison

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Mango Moon documents the heartbreak that happens when 10-year-old Maricela’s father is detained for deportation to an unnamed but dangerous country. Maricela feels his loss in every aspect of her life and looks for ways to connect with him, especially by imagining they are both looking at the same "mango moon." Ages 7 and up.

Visiting Day

by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by James Ransome

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Woodson depicts the importance of children maintaining a relationship with an incarcerated parent. With the companionship of her grandmother, a young girl gets ready to visit her father and takes the long bus ride to the prison. The relationship between daughter and father is positive and the girl is assured that her father will be home one day. The book ends on a hopeful note and I appreciated that there was no judgement of the father. Ages 4 and up.

Knock Knock My Dad's Dream for Me

by Daniel Beaty, illustrated by Brian Collier

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

The story begins with a boy telling us that every morning his father says "Knock, knock," but that one morning he isn't there. He goes on to describe the loss he feels everyday and the worry he feels that he might not see his father again. When a letter comes from the father, we get the sense he will be gone for a very long time. Because the text never confirms that the father is incarcerated, Beaty's story could apply to other situations where a parent is absent. Ages 4 and up.

Mama's Nightingale

by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Saya, a girl of Haitian descent lives with her father after her mother is sent to Sunshine Correctional facility, a detention center for undocumented immigrants. Saya and her father write letters, hoping to draw public attention to their situation. Until the day when a judge allows Saya's mother to await her papers at home, Saya finds comfort in the Haitian stories her mother records for her. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Picture books about refugees

Middle Grade Books

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

by Janae Marks

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

I adored this book about Zoe, a 12-year-old girl who, after starting a correspondence with her incarcerated father, Marcus, sets out to prove his innocence. Zoe's mother always kept Zoe from having a relationship with her father, who was serving time for murder, but one day, Zoe discovers a letter addressed to her from him and decides to write back. Zoe and her friend, Trevor, start to investigate Marcus' trial conviction, learning about systemic racism in the justice system. While the subject is certainly very serious, Janae Marks has written a marvelously accessible story with likable, nuanced characters. Ages 9 and up.

Santiago's Road Home

by Alexandra Diaz

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

After 12-year-old Santiago runs from his abusive home, he meets the kind María Dolores and her daughter, Alegría. They are on their way to El Norte, where they have family, and Santiago joins them on the treacherous journey. Once over the border, they come close to death in the desert and are found by immigration officers who take them to detention centers. In the center, Santiago learns the awful truth of how immigrants are treated and despairs that he will never leave. It is the kindness of María Dolores's family that saves him. A totally engrossing and important story. Ages 9 and up.

Land of the Cranes

by Aida Salazar

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Salazar brings us another lovely verse novel (I recommended her wonderful The Moon Within on my list of books about puberty). Betita, a girl who find magic in words, lives with the uncertainty of her family's immigration status. One day, her father's workplace is raided by ICE and he is deported. Then, due to a tragic navigational mistake on the highway, Betita and her pregnant mother end up in detainment. There is no tidy ending for Betita and her family, a situation far too many families find themselves in. Ages 8 and up.

Bringing Me Back

by Beth Vrabel

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Noah's mom is in prison for six months and the whole school hates him. The previous school year his mom was arrested for driving under the influence, and the school's football season was cancelled due to Noah's actions that resulted in another player's injury. Noah's now living with his mother's boyfriend who provides a surprising degree of stability. Noah, however, refuses to visit his mom, instead focusing on finding and rescuing a bear that has a bucket stuck on its head. Middle grade readers, regardless of their personal situation will easily relate to Noah's emotional ups and downs. Ages 9 and up.

MORE: Books that address alcoholism and addition

All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook

by Leslie Connor

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Don't miss this wonderful book! For twelve years, Perry has lived at the minimum security Blue River Co-ed Correctional Facility, where his mother is imprisoned. His official foster parent is the warden, who allows Perry to stay with his mom. Perry has made important relationships with several of the women, giving the reader a nuanced view of the lives of people who make mistakes. Perry's mother is due to be paroled but a DA derails the process and then removes Perry from his foster parent. Perry is devastated to be taken from his mother but works hard to get back to his mother. Ages 8 and up.

Ruby on the Outside

by Nora Raleigh Baskin

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Ruby's mother is in prison and Ruby doesn't want anyone to find out. She tries to keep her "outside" and "inside" worlds separate. She finally decides to connect to someone on the "outside" and befriends a new girl at school, who is experiencing family difficulties and a loss of her own. The tragedies of the girls collide and their friendship is tested. A page-turning, compassionate story. Ages 9 and up.

Lizzie Flying Solo

by Nanci Turner Steveson

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Lizzie's dad is arrested for embezzlement and Lizzie and her mom end up in a homeless shelter. Lizzie withdraws into herself but when she meets an unbroken pony, she is determined to help it and starts working at the barn in exchange for riding lessons. Gradually, as Lizzie learns the stories of the others in the shelter and engages with her peers, she finds her own strength. Not your typical "a girl and her horse" story. Ages 8 and up.

MORE: Children's books that address poverty and homelessness

Tito the Bonecrusher

by Melissa Thomson

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When Oliver's dad ends up in a Florida jail, Oliver decides to seek assistance from his favorite luchador, Tito the Bonecrusher. Oliver's best friend helps him with a plan to meet Tito at a charity gala to enlist him to help them break Oliver's dad out of prison. Thomson successfully integrates humor and absurdity into a story of a family dealing with an emotional crisis, making this book a joy to read. Ages 8 and up.

Harbor Me

by Jacqueline Woodson

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Six diverse kids are put together in a room at school as a place where they can talk about the issues they are facing in their lives. Their burdens are as diverse as their backgrounds; incarceration, racial profiling, possible deportation are just a few of the subjects the middle schoolers need and want to talk about with each other. Woodson's prose is gorgeous, almost poetic and the reader will come to care for all of the teens as they tell their stories. Ages 10 and up.

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Even toddlers can start to learn that it's okay to stand up and tell people how they want others to respect their physical boundaries. With older kids, you'll want to have more in-depth conversations. For each book on the list, I've offered a suggested age recommendation, but please preview the books if you have any concerns.

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If you shop for books online, and you wish to support independent booksellers, you can find this book list curated on Bookshop.

Books about Consent

WILL LADYBUG HUG? by Hilary Leung

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Ladybug is leaving on a trip and saying goodbye to her friends. One by one, the narrator asks if each of Ladybug's friends will hug. Everyone hugs in a different style, except for Sheep who doesn't want to hug at all. This book gives toddlers and preschoolers a friendly introduction to the concept of personal space, boundaries and consent. Ages 1 and up.

Don't Hug Doug

DON'T HUG DOUG by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Daniel Wiseman

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Finison's upbeat book empowers children to believe that it is okay to tell people they don't want to hug and that asserting personal boundaries is healthy and normal. Doug looks huggable but he doesn't like hugs. Others ask about a variety of situations, but Doug says no to them all. Children will learn that it's okay to like hugs always, sometimes or never, and teaches them to always ask before hugging. Ages 3 and up.

Learning about the human body is a good way to supplement your conversations about consent.

Read these books about the human body to get you started.

CONSENT (FOR KIDS!) by Rachel Brian

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Hands down, this is the best book on the subject of consent and respecting physical boundaries I have read. The comic book format, simple but clever illustrations, and the witty humor make a tough subject very approachable. I highly recommend parents start reading this book to children as young as 4. You will want to adjust your conversations appropriately, of course. I even read it out loud with my then-11 year old and he had some insightful observations. A must read. Ages 4 (with a parent) and up.

DON'T TOUCH MY HAIR by Sharee Miller

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Our narrator, Aria, has a gorgeous head of hair. It's so beautiful that everyone wants to touch it. But, as Aria explains, she doesn't like it when they do. Miller uses humor to show all the ways Aria evades the outstretched hands that attempt to reach her hair. The illustrations are dynamic and full of comedic detail. Ages 3 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Hair

TELL ME ABOUT SEX, GRANDMA by Anastasia Higginbotham

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I love Higginbotham's refreshingly direct "Ordinary Terrible Things" series. In the series, she tackles death, divorce, white privilege, and now, consent and sexuality. A young girl asks her grandma about sex and grandma confirms that curiosity about sex is totally normal. Grandma also tells her about the importance of consent and personal choice. (It's not a book about teaching about the mechanics of sex.) One nice touch: grandma stresses that its better to ask grandma these questions than to go on the internet to get answers. Higginbotham's mixed media collages are a delight. Ages 4 and up.

RISSY, NO KISSIES by Katey Howes, illustrated by Jess Engle

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Rissy comes from a family of lovebirds that love showing affection to one another but Rissy is not so keen on all the physical attention. She wonders if she is normal, but receives reassurance from her mother that her need for physical boundaries is totally okay. Ages 1 and up.

SEX IS A FUNNY WORD by Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth

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I love Silverberg's book What Makes a Baby and have recommended it on a few lists. This book is much longer and works towards normalizing curiosity about sex and the complex feelings that surround it. Silverberg creates four main characters through which to educate the reader. In addition to addressing gender and types of bodies, Silverberg emphasizes consent and respect for oneself and for others. (This is not a book about the mechanics of sex; Silverberg's next offering will be about puberty.) Ages 7 and up.

LET'S TALK ABOUT HEALTHY BODY BOUNDARIES, CONSENT, AND RESPECT by Jayneen Sanders, illustrated by Sarah Jennings

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I really appreciate that this book depicts children of all colors, sizes, religions and abilities. It introduces the concept of an invisible body boundary. "No one should come inside your body boundary without you saying it's okay." The book asks the reader questions like, "How do you think this makes the child feel?" as well as going over concepts like consent and talking to a trusted adult. The text introduces situations and asks the readers for suggestions as to how to handle it. The book is not exclusively about sexual touch, but includes scenarios like hugging, shoving, pushing and more. The parent discussion in the endnotes outlines talking points page by page. Age 4 and up.

Another useful book list: Picture books to teach manners.

MY BODY BELONGS TO ME: A BOOK ABOUT BODY SAFETY by Jill Starishevsky, illustrated by Angela Padron

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop (bilingual edition)

This book is a little different than the above choice because the protagonist experiences an unwelcome advance on his body by his uncle. Because he has been taught to always go to his trusted adults when he experiences an unsafe situation, the boy tells his parents, who reassure him that he did the right thing. This book contains some excellent parent tips. Ages 3 and up.

MY BODY BELONGS TO ME FROM MY HEAD TO MY TOES by pro familia (a German organization), illustrated by Dagmar Geisler

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This book focuses on learning the importance of owning your own body, and body awareness. There is an emphasis on types of touch that are both welcome and unwelcome. The girl protagonist learns different ways of saying no and gains a positive self-image. Ages 3 and up.

THAT UH-OH FEELING by Kathryn Cole, illustrated by Qin Leng

Find it: Amazon

This story is a bit didactic in its presentation, but is still worth reading. Claire is uncomfortable with the type of attention her soccer coach is giving her. She confides in her friends who encourage her to talk to her mom. What I like about this book is that it addresses the way unwanted attention and actions may come from an adult who others view as trustworthy, or who "acts nice" to them. Ages 5 and up.

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Much has been written about how and when to educate children about the horrors of the Holocaust. I shall point you to the following resources:

• United States Holocaust Museum - age appropriate education
• Fear Factor - on reading books about the Holocaust

When reading books with Jewish characters, please, don't just read books about the Holocaust. Yes, the Holocaust must be remembered, but it is not the only event which defines Jewish identity and experience! For every book about the Holocaust you read to your kids, read a bunch of books with Jewish characters that are not about World War II! We have three lists to get you started:

• Jewish folktales for kids
• Middle grade books with Jewish protagonists
• Jewish picture books that are not about the Holocaust

Another excellent resource for good Jewish children's books is Tablet Magazine's children's literature section.

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Picture Books

If your children are not quite ready to learn about the Holocaust, you can read them books that teach kids how to have an anti-bias mindset, and picture books that encourage positive community building. When children are ready, here are three excellent books to start with.

Nicky and Vera by Peter Sís

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Sís' brilliant and detailed illustrations add an evocative emotional layer to his story of Nicholas Winton, a German-Jewish man living in England who organized the rescue of 699 Jewish children in 1938. Vera was one of those children whose parents decided to send her away on the transport. Nicky's heroism didn't come out into the open until his wife revealed it to the public 50 years later. A stunning book, both visually and emotionally. Ages 7 and up.

I Will Come Back for You: A Family in Hiding During World War II by Marisabina Russo

Find it: Amazon

Russo based this story on her own family's experience. Nonna's granddaughter loves her Nonna's charm bracelet, from which hangs a number of charms such as a ship, bicycle, a piano, and more. Nonna uses the charms to tell her granddaughter stories about her past, when her family lived in Rome. First she tells about happy times, but eventually she shares her experience going into hiding and the kindness of people who kept her safe. In the end notes, Russo includes photos of her family and addresses how and why she fictionalized her family's story. Ages 7 and up.

The Whispering Town by Jennifer Elvgren, illustrated by Fabio Santomauro

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Based on a true story, this testament to community is the inspiring tale of how one town Nazi-occupied Denmark saved the lives of a Jewish mother and son. Anett's family had been hiding the pair in their cellar, but in order to get them through the town to a boat headed to Sweden, the whole town must take a risk and come together. Ages 7 and up.

Middle Grade Books

Many of these children's novels about the legacy of the Holocaust are inspired by true stories.

Hidden: A Child's Story of the Holocaust by Loïc Dauvillier, Greg Salsedo, and Marc Lizano.

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This graphic novel is an extraordinarily touching book, and a very child-appropriate tale of the Holocaust. Dounia tells her granddaughter her experience of being hidden during WWWII in France when her parents were taken to concentration camps.  The brilliance of this book is we hear and see the story from the viewpoint of both child and grandparent, with key points told through illustrations that compel the reader to ask more questions and analyze for themselves what is happening. Ages 8 and up.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

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Finding age appropriate books about tough subjects like this one is a boon to parents and educators. This is a classic and moving novel by Lois Lowry, set during World War II and is required reading in many American classrooms.  In 1943 Denmark, 10-year-old Annemarie and her family risk their lives to help their Jewish friends escape the Nazis. Ages 8 and up.

Adam and Thomas by Aharon Appelfeld

Find it: Amazon

This story of two Jewish boys who hide in the forest is incredibly moving. The boys have been sent into the forest by their mothers. They build a nest in the tree and when their supplies run out, they start to forage for food. A peasant girl leaves them food and Adam's dog Miro finds them deep in the forest with a message from his mother. The war intrudes into the forest in small ways when people pass though. Everyone tells them to stay in the forest and hide. When winter comes the struggle to survive becomes more urgent. The narrative style is quiet, almost dreamlike and the narration switches between the two boys' viewpoints as they learn valuable lessons from each other. (Originally published in Hebrew) Ages 9 and up.

Letters from Cuba by Ruth Behar

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I could not stop turning the pages of this excellent epistolary novel. In 1938, Esther leaves her mother and brother in Poland and joins her father in Cuba. Esther tells her story in a series of letters to her sister. Making the journey by herself, as a Jewish refugee, Esther looks forward to her new home. Once in Cuba, she falls in love with the island and her neighbors. Her father has been working as a peddler, but Esther is a talented seamstress and finds success selling sought after dresses so that she and her father are finally able to send for the rest of the family. Behar based the book on the story of her grandmother and introduces readers to an incredibly diverse population. Ages 9 and up.

Broken Strings by Eric Walters and Kathy Kacer

Find it: Amazon

Shirli loves acting and singing. She gets a part in the school production of Fiddler on the Roof, and even though it is not the role she wanted, she throws herself into it. Shirli regularly visits her grandfather, a Holocaust survivor. One day, Shirli finds a violin in his attic, which she thinks is odd, as she understands her grandfather never wants to listen music. Slowly, Shirli learns her grandfather's dark story, and when the musical production loses its director, Shirli's grandfather takes up his violin once again. The action of this story takes place in the wake of 9/11 and the characters reflect upon the current state of racial and religious prejudice in their community. Ages 9 and up.

When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr

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Kerr based this book on her own experience leaving Nazi Germany and living in Switzerland and France, before finally heading for England. As a young Jewish girl, Anna is aware that something unsettling is happening in her home country, and her father's livelihood is threatened, but she doesn't quite understand the danger Hitler poses. While in Zurich and Paris, young Anna must learn how to navigate new schools and cultures, make new friends and accept that her family life is irrevocably changed. Through it all, Anna hangs on to the idea that as long as their family is together, that is all that matters. Ages 8 and up.

Nonfiction

The following titles include memoirs, a diary and an excellent in-depth look at some of the children who survived.

My Survival: A Girl on Schindler's List, a Memoir by Rena Finder and Joshua M. Greene

Find it: Amazon

I was unable to put down Finder's memoir about her experience as as a girl on Schindler's list. Rena unflinchingly describes life in a Jewish family during the invasion of Poland, the effect of anti-Jewish laws on the population, the horrors of slave labor, and the uncertainty of survival, even as the war neared its end. Unforgettable. Ages 11 and up.

Chance: Escape from the Holocaust by Uri Shulevitz

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Shulevitz's remarkable work will be enjoyed by children, teens and adults, alike. I was mesmerized by his story and the wonderful illustrations. Born in Poland, Schulevitz tells the story of his family's flight from the invading German army, first to the Soviet Union, then to Turkestan and Paris. He describes the anti-Semitism, the crippling poverty and hunger he experienced, but his narrative is still filled with humor. A strong thread throughout is Schulevitz's love of drawing and his mother's storytelling. Ages 10 and up. I highly recommend reading his picture book, How I Learned Geography, as is father's map makes an important cameo in Chance. Ages 9 and up.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

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You do not need me to introduce this life-changing book. Anne Frank's first hand account of her life in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands is essential reading for every person. Ages 11 and up.

We Had to Be Brave by Deborah Hopkinson

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Hopkinson's expertly crafted book about the Kindertransport combines first person narratives, historical details and commentary to present readers with a much-needed history of the children who escaped Nazi Germany via the Kindertransport, an organized rescue operation that helped Jewish children reach safety in Great Britain. Extensive end notes include a timeline of events, glossary, and further resources. Hopkinson's companion book, We Must Not Forget: Holocaust Stories of Survival and Resistance is also a must read. Ages 10 and up.

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• National Domestic Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE; if you are Deaf, Use TTY 1-800-787-3224
• Strong Hearts Hotline 1-844-7NATIVE

The purpose of this book list is to give voice to children who have endured the heartbreaking trauma of abuse. It's designed to share the experiences endured by so many children and to engender compassion and understanding for others, but also to illuminate the healing process and show that children are more than just any trauma they may have endured.

I recognize that I was fortunate to be able to read these books from a position of privilege, having never personally experienced abuse or trauma and I realize that others will read them from a different perspective, or may not be able to read them at all.

It's my hope that parents, teachers and other trusted adults will read these books alongside their children and discuss the events, as well as the emotions and questions that arise from them.

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These are middle and upper middle grade books that address domestic abuse. In general, they are suitable for ages 9 and up. I've included age recommendations but you will want to use your own judgement as well.

The Blackbird Girls

by Anne Blankman

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

I could not put this book down. Valentina and Oksana both have fathers who work at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, but they do not get along. When the unthinkable happens and there is an explosion at the plant, the girls are evacuated. Oksana has to leave her mother and father behind and instead accompanies Valentina and her mother to Leningrad. The story alternates between the two girls in 1986, and Rifka in 1941, who we later learn is Valentina's grandmother. The girls learn secrets about their families, each other and must learn out how to trust each other. One of the secrets that is revealed is that Oksana has endured abuse at the hands of her father, and then later from her mother's new boyfriend. Through her narration, Oksana slowly comes to understand that her parents have been lying to her and that she does not deserve the abuse. Ages 10 and up.

Fighting Words

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

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In Fighting Words 10 year old Della and her older sister, Suki, have recently been placed with a foster mom. Their mother is in jail, and their mother's boyfriend has just been arrested. Della knows that something awful has happened to her sister and wants to protect her like Suki has always done for here. Della's story involves sexual abuse and suicide, but Bradley's storytelling is sensitive, even funny sometimes, and she creates characters that we can't help but fall in love with. Highly recommended! Ages 11 and up.

Sure Signs of Crazy

by Karen Harrington

Amazon | Bookshop

When Sarah was 2 years old, her mother tried to drown her. Now 12, and with her mother living in a mental health institution, Sarah goes from town to town, living with her alcoholic father. As she experiences her first crush, a changing body, and love of words, Sarah shares her thoughts in letters she writes to Atticus Finch of To Kill a Mockingbird. But Sarah also worries if she will grow up to be "crazy" like her mother or an alcoholic like her father. Ages 10 and up.

More: Middle Grade Books that Address Mental Illness

The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade

by Jordan Sonnenblick

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This is a really wonderful book! Maverick carries a sheriff's badge with him, a gift from his father who died in Afghanistan. He hopes it will help him to be courageous and stand up to bullies, making school a better place for everyone. His mother's boyfriends are abusive and alcoholic and Maverick is not always perfect himself. Sonnenblick has created relatable characters, written in laugh-out-loud humor and given the story a huge amount of heart. Highly recommended. Ages 9 and up.

More: Middle Grade Books that Address Alcoholism

The Paper Cowboy

by Kristen Levine

Amazon | Bookshop

It's 1953 and Tommy is the class bully. His difficult family life causes him to act out and when his sister is seriously injured while doing a chore that Tommy was supposed to do himself, things turn inside out. Tommy starts a paper route and becomes suspicious that one of his neighbors might be a communist. He makes the poor decision to frame the deli owner for communist activities. The effects of his actions are severe and Tommy must come to understand the consequences of acting without knowledge of the truth. Meanwhile, at home, Tommy endures family life with a depressed and increasingly abusive mother. When the family finally gets help, readers will get a small glimpse into the beginnings of psychotherapy in the 50s. Ages 9 and up.

Free Lunch

by Rex Ogle

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Ogle's memoir is impossible to put down. Bi-racial Rex is starting sixth grade. His mom has enrolled him in the free lunch program; Rex feels embarrassed about his poverty and is already enduring racist bullying at school. Rex narrates his roller coaster life. His emotionally and physically abusive home life crashes up against his hopeful nature, his new friendship, and wisdom imparted to him by his Abuela. It's a complex story with no easy answers, but still holds humor and optimism. Ages 10 and up.

The War that Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Ada, born with a club foot, has never left the apartment that she shares with her younger brother and cruel mother. When her mother sends her brother out of London to the countryside at the start of WWII, Ada runs away with him. In the country they begin to make a new life with Susan, a woman who reluctantly takes them in. The three of them form a bond and Ada finally gets to truly live. Ages 9 and up.

What Jamie Saw

by Carolyn Coman

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What Jamie Saw opens up with a scene in which Jamie witnesses his stepfather throwing his baby sister. Fortunately, his mother catches her daughter. The rest of the story details Jamie's subsequent fear and anxiety as he, his mother and sister leave to live elsewhere. Jamie is haunted by the prospect that his stepfather will find them. This short novel captures the intense emotions and confusion that can overcome children when they witness abuse and their desperate search to feel safe. Ages 9 and up.

One for the Murphys

by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Carley is placed in a foster home after she experiences domestic violence and although her new foster mother is kind, Carley is unable to let go and accept this kindness and stability as her new reality. Carley remains strong, making a new friend at school and demonstrates wit and humor. She finally warms up to the Murphy family and their boys just as her mother re-enters her life. Having no experience with the foster system don't know if the author adequately depicts its realities; that may be a topic for further discussion. Ages 10 and up.

A Game of Fox and Squirrels

by Jenn Reese

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

After an abusive event, Sam and her sister, Caitlin, are sent away to live with their Aunt Vicky and her wife, Hannah, in rural Oregon. Sam simply wants to return to L.A., while her sister is more accepting of the loving home Vicky and Hannah provide. Vicky gives Sam a card game, "A Game of Fox and Squirrels." On the cards are images of animals in costumes. Soon, a real fox and squirrels visit Sam and challenge her to a mysterious game. Reese has masterfully written a story of the psychological effects of trauma on children without ever describing the actual physical abuse the two girls experienced. Ages 10 and up.

The Star Outside My Window

by Onjali Q. Rauf

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Rauf's touching story is full of memorable characters. Aniyah and her younger brother, Noah, have been running, with their mother, from their abusive father for a while. But now, their mother has died. Aniyah and Noah are placed in a foster home and Aniyah has not spoken since. Aniyah believes that one of the stars she watches is actually her mother and she sets out to get the Royal Observatory in Greenwich to name a new star after her. The journey in which she then goes on is both heart-breaking and empowering. Ages 9 and up.

The Ship We Built

by Lexie Bean

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

5th grader Rowan doesn't feel like anyone understands him. He starts writing letters and sends them off attached to balloons. Rowan is a transgender boy, but everyone still sees him as a girl and he doesn't know how to tell someone that his father comes into his bedroom at night (the sexual abuse is not described). His new friend, Sofie, starts to see him for who he is, and their friendship grows, offering Rowan one way to start healing and speaking up. The topics addressed in this extraordinary novel are difficult but it is important that we see them. Ages 10 and up.

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