Inclusive Books List for Children & Families

Representation matters in media & in literature. It is important for children & youth to see themselves and their families represented in literature. Family looks different for each person, and learning to appreciate the beauty in those differences by hearing stories of families that may not look like our own helps to develop empathy, compassion, appreciation, & respect for others, moving us all toward a more inclusive world! We'd like to share a huge List of Inclusive Books! The title, author, and summary of the book are included. The Books are categorized by Children & Family, Adolescence & Young Adults, and 

A Boy like You by Frank Murphy

2020 "Rise: A Feminist Book Project Top Ten" winner (ALA) & Winner of the 2019 Eureka! Gold Awards There's more to being a boy than sports, feats of daring, and keeping a stiff upper lip. A Boy Like You encourages every boy to embrace all the things that make him unique, to be brave and ask for help, to tell his own story and listen to the stories of those around him. In an age when boys are expected to fit into a particular mold, this book celebrates all the wonderful ways to be a boy.

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara

The alliteration, rhyming, and vibrant illustrations make the book exciting for children, while the issues it brings up resonate with their parents' values of community, equality, and justice. This engaging little book carries huge messages as it inspires hope for the future, and calls children to action while teaching them a love for books.

Ada Twist, Scientist  by Andrea Beaty 

Inspired by real-life makers Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, this beloved #1 bestseller champions STEM, girl power and women scientists in a rollicking celebration of curiosity, the power perseverance, and the importance of asking “Why?”  

All Are Welcome by Alexandria Penfold

Discover a school where—no matter what—young children have a place, have a space, and are loved and appreciated.

All Because You Matter by Tami Charles

A lyrical, heart-lifting love letter to Black and brown children everywhere: reminding them how much they matter, that they have always mattered, and they always will.

Todos Iguals/All Equal by Christy Hale

This nonfiction bilingual picture book, written in both English and Spanish, tells the empowering story of The Lemon Grove Incident--a major victory in the battle against school segregation, and a testament to the tenacity of an immigrant community and its fight for equal rights.

Be the Difference by Jayneen Sanders

This engaging book provides over 40 powerful ideas on how kids and the people who love them can make a difference. Using kid-friendly text and beautiful illustrations, the focus is on three key areas: empathy and kindness, racial and gender equality, and caring for the environment. 

Black is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy

A child reflects on the meaning of being Black in this moving and powerful anthem about a people, a culture, a history, and a legacy that lives on

Brick by Brick by Heidi Woodward Sheffield

Papi is a bricklayer, and he works hard every day to help build the city, brick by brick. His son, Luis, works hard too--in school, book by book. Papi climbs scaffolds, makes mortar, and shovels sand. Luis climbs on the playground and molds clay into tiny bricks to make buildings, just like Papi. Together, they dream big about their future as they work to make those dreams come true. And then one Saturday, Papi surprises Luis with something special he's built for their family, brick by brick.

Don’t Touch My Hair by Sharee Miller

An entertaining picture book that teaches the importance of asking for permission first as a young girl attempts to escape the curious hands that want to touch her hair.

Except When They Don’t by Laura Gehl

This stereotype-breaking book invites children to examine what they're told "boy" and "girl" activities are and encourages them to play with whatever they want to and to be exactly who they are! This book is published in partnership with GLAAD to accelerate LGBTQ inclusivity and acceptance.

Families, Families, Families! By Suzanne Lang

Moms, dads, sisters, brothers — and even Great Aunt Sue — appear in dozens of combinations, demonstrating all kinds of nontraditional families! Silly animals are cleverly depicted in framed portraits, and offer a warm celebration of family love.

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard

Told in lively and powerful verse by debut author Kevin Noble Maillard, Fry Bread is an evocative depiction of a modern Native American family, vibrantly illustrated by Pura Belpre Award winner and Caldecott Honoree Juana Martinez-Neal. 

Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry 

Zuri's hair has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Zuri knows it's beautiful. When Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he'll do anything to make her -- and her hair -- happy. Hair Love is an ode to loving your natural hair -- and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere.

Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin

Is there anything more splendid than a baby’s skin? Cocoa-brown, cinnamon, peaches and cream. As children grow, their clever skin does, too, enjoying hugs and tickles, protecting them inside and out, and making them one of a kind. Fran Manushkin’s rollicking text and Lauren Tobia’s delicious illustrations paint a breezy and irresistible picture of the human family — and how wonderful it is to be just who you are

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

Based on the New York Times bestselling book and the Academy Award–nominated movie, author Margot Lee Shetterly and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award winner Laura Freeman bring the incredibly inspiring true story of four black women who helped NASA launch men into space to picture book readers! 

I Am Human: A Book of Empathy

From the bestselling team that created I Am Yoga, I Am Peace, I Am Love, and I Am One comes a hopeful celebration of the human family. I Am Human affirms that we can make good choices by acting with compassion and having empathy for others and ourselves. When we find common ground, we can feel connected to the great world around us and mindfully strive to be our best selves.

I am Enough by Grace Byers

We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.

I am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown

In this empowering ode to modern families, a boy and his father take a joyful walk through the city, discovering all the ways in which they are perfectly designed for each other

I Love My Hair! By Natasha Anastasia Tarpley 

In this imaginative, evocative story, a girl named Keyana discovers the beauty and magic of her special hair, encouraging black children to be proud of their heritage and enhancing self-confidence.

Intersection Allies: We Make Room for All by Chelsea Johnson

The brainchild of three women-of-color sociologists, IntersectionAllies is a smooth, gleeful entry into intersectional feminism. The nine interconnected characters proudly describe themselves and their backgrounds, involving topics that range from a physical disability to language brokering, offering an opportunity to take pride in a personal story and connect to collective struggle for justice.

It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity by Theresa Thorn

Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between. This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.

Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

While riding the subway home from the pool with his abuela one day, Julián notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. When Julián gets home, daydreaming of the magic he’s seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies in his own fabulous mermaid costume: a butter-yellow curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress. But what will Abuela think about the mess he makes — and even more importantly, what will she think about how Julián sees himself? Mesmerizing and full of heart, Jessica Love’s author-illustrator debut is a jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality. 

Just Like Me by Vanessa Brantley Newton

A collection of poetry filled with engaging mini-stories about girls of all kinds: girls who feel happy, sad, scared, powerful; girls who love their bodies and girls who don't; country girls, city girls; girls who love their mother and girls who wish they had a father. With bright portraits in Vanessa's signature style of vibrant colors and unique patterns and fabrics, this book invites readers to find themselves and each other within its pages. 

Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson

In 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, thousands of African American children volunteered to march for their civil rights after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak. They protested the laws that kept black people separate from white people. Facing fear, hate, and danger, these children used their voices to change the world. Frank Morrison's emotive oil-on-canvas paintings bring this historical event to life, while Monica Clark-Robinson's moving and poetic words document this remarkable time. 

The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad

With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong.

Let’s Talk About Race by Julius Lester

I am a story. So are you. So is everyone. Julius Lester says, "I write because our lives are stories. If enough of these stories are told, then perhaps we will begin to see that our lives are the same story. The differences are merely in the details." Now Mr. Lester shares his own story as he explores what makes each of us special. Karen Barbour's dramatic, vibrant paintings speak to the heart of Lester's unique vision, truly a celebration of all of us.                                                                               

 Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, role models, and everyday women who did extraordinary things - bold women whose actions and beliefs contributed to making the world better for generations of girls and women to come. Whether they were putting pen to paper, soaring through the air or speaking up for the rights of others, the women profiled in these pages were all taking a stand against a world that didn't always accept them. 

Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer

Love is baking a special cake. Love is lending a helping hand. Love is reading one more book. In this exuberant board book, many different families are shown in happy activity, from an early-morning wake-up to a kiss before bed. Whether a child has two moms, two dads, one parent, or one of each, this simple preschool read-aloud demonstrates that what's most important in each family's life is the love the family members share.

M Is for Melanin: A Celebration of the Black Child by Tiffany Rose

Each letter of the alphabet contains affirming, Black-positive messages, from A is for Afro, to F is for Fresh, to W is for Worthy. This book teaches children their ABCs while encouraging them to love the skin that they're in

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed

Little Mae’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination, matched with her parents' encouraging words, paved the way for her incredible success at NASA as the first African American woman to travel in space. This book will inspire other young girls to reach for the stars, to aspire for the impossible, and to persist with childlike imagination.                                                                                            

Mama’s Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation by Edwidge Danticat

After Saya's mother is sent to an immigration detention center, Saya finds comfort in listening to her mother's warm greeting on their answering machine. To ease the distance between them while she’s in jail, Mama begins sending Saya bedtime stories inspired by Haitian folklore on cassette tape. Moved by her mother's tales and her father's attempts to reunite their family, Saya writes a story of her own—one that just might bring her mother home for good

Mommy’s Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

A young girl plays dress up with her mother's headscarves, feeling her mother's love with every one she tries on. Charming and vibrant illustrations showcase the beauty of the diverse and welcoming community in this portrait of a young Muslim American girl's life.

My New Mom & Me by Renata Galindo

Told from the point of view of a puppy who is adopted by a cat, this gentle and reassuring tale is perfect for very young readers and listeners. When the puppy comes to live with his new mom, he is nervous. After all, his mom has stripes and he doesn't. But his mom says she likes that they look different, and soon the puppy likes it, too. (And who cares what anyone else thinks!) The puppy's new mom does all the things other parents do. She plays with him, takes care of him, and sometimes even makes him mad! But that's okay, because when he's feeling sad, she knows just what to say.

Nana Akua Goes to School by Tricia Elam Walker 

In this moving story that celebrates cultural diversity, a shy girl brings her West African grandmother--whose face bears traditional tribal markings--to meet her classmates. This is a perfect read for back to school--no matter what that looks like! 

Not Quite Snow White by Ashley Franklin

Not Quite Snow White is a delightful and inspiring picture book that highlights the importance of self-confidence while taking an earnest look at what happens when that confidence is shaken or lost. Tameika encourages us all to let our magic shine.

Pink Is For Boys by Robb Pearlman 

Pink is for boys . . . and girls . . . and everyone! This timely and beautiful picture book rethinks and reframes the stereotypical blue/pink gender binary and empowers kids-and their grown-ups-to express themselves in every color of the rainbow. Featuring a diverse group of relatable characters, Pink Is for Boys invites and encourages girls and boys to enjoy what they love to do, whether it's racing cars and playing baseball, or loving unicorns and dressing up. Vibrant illustrations help children learn and identify the myriad colors that surround them every day, from the orange of a popsicle, to the green of a grassy field, all the way up to the wonder of a multicolored rainbow. 

Say Something! By Peter H. Reynolds

Perfect for kid activists everywhere, this timely story reminds readers of the undeniable importance and power of their voice. There are so many ways to tell the world who you are... what you are thinking... and what you believe. And how you'll make it better. The time is now: SAY SOMETHING!

Speak Up by Miranda Paul 

When something really matters, one voice can make a difference. This spirited, vibrant picture book celebrates diversity and encourages kids to speak up, unite with others, and take action when they see something that needs to be fixed.

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o

Sulwe has skin the color of midnight. She is darker than everyone in her family. She is darker than anyone in her school. Sulwe just wants to be beautiful and bright, like her mother and sister. Then a magical journey in the night sky opens her eyes and changes everything.

The Day You Begin by Jaqueline Woodson

Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.

The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Roye Montague by Julia Finley Mosca

After touring a German submarine in the early 1940s, young Raye set her sights on becoming an engineer. Little did she know sexism and racial inequality would challenge that dream every step of the way, even keeping her greatest career accomplishment a secret for decades. Through it all, the gifted mathematician persisted―finally gaining her well-deserved title in history: a pioneer who changed the course of ship design forever.

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

Being the new kid in school is hard enough, but what about when nobody can pronounce your name? Having just moved from Korea, Unhei is anxious that American kids will like her. So instead of introducing herself on the first day of school, she tells the class that she will choose a name by the following week. Her new classmates are fascinated by this no-name girl and decide to help out by filling a glass jar with names for her to pick from. But while Unhei practices being a Suzy, Laura, or Amanda, one of her classmates comes to her neighborhood and discovers her real name and its special meaning. On the day of her name choosing, the name jar has mysteriously disappeared. Encouraged by her new friends, Unhei chooses her own Korean name and helps everyone pronounce it—Yoon-Hey.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard

In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read. From Rita Lorraine Hubbard and rising star Oge More comes the inspirational story of Mary Walker, a woman whose long life spanned from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and who--with perseverance and dedication--proved that you're never too old to learn.

The Skin You Live In by Michael Tyler

With the ease and simplicity of a nursery rhyme, this lively story delivers an important message of social acceptance to young readers. Themes associated with child development and social harmony, such as friendship, acceptance, self-esteem, and diversity are promoted in simple and straightforward prose. Vivid illustrations of children's activities for all cultures, such as swimming in the ocean, hugging, catching butterflies, and eating birthday cake are also provided. This delightful picturebook offers a wonderful venue through which parents and teachers can discuss important social concepts with their children. 

The World Needs More Purple People by Kristen Bell & Benjamin Hart

What is a purple person? Great question. I mean, really great! Because purple people always ask really great questions. They bring their family, friends, and communities together, and they speak up for what’s right. They are kind and hardworking, and they love to laugh (especially at Grandpa’s funny noises)! A purple person is an everyday superhero! How do you become one? That’s the fun part! Penny Purple will lead you through the steps. Get ready to be silly, exercise your curiosity, use your voice, and be inspired.

Under my Hijab by Hena Kahn 

Grandma wears it clasped under her chin. Aunty pins hers up with a beautiful brooch. Jenna puts it under a sun hat when she hikes. Zara styles hers to match her outfit. As a young girl observes six very different women in her life who each wear the hijab in a unique way, she also dreams of the rich possibilities of her own future, and how she will express her own personality through her hijab. Written in sprightly rhyme and illustrated by a talented newcomer, Under My Hijab honors the diverse lives of contemporary Muslim women and girls, their love for each other, and their pride in their culture and faith.

We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell

The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the new year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.

We’re Different, We’re the Same by Bobbi Kates

Elmo and his Sesame Street friends help teach toddlers and the adults in their lives that everyone is the same on the inside, and it's our differences that make this wonderful world, which is home to us all, an interesting—and special—place. This enduring, colorful, and charmingly illustrated book offers an easy, enjoyable way to learn about differences—and what truly matters. We’re Different, We’re the Same is an engaging read for toddlers and adults alike that reinforces how we all have the same needs, desires, and feelings.

When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff

When Aidan Became a Brother is a heartwarming book that will resonate with transgender children, reassure any child concerned about becoming an older sibling, and celebrate the many transitions a family can experience.

You Matter by Christian Robinson 

In this full, bright, and beautiful picture book, many different perspectives around the world are deftly and empathetically explored—from a pair of bird-watchers to the pigeons they’re feeding. Young readers will be drawn into the luminous illustrations inviting them to engage with the world in a new way and see how everyone is connected, and that everyone matters.

For Adolescents and Young Adults

I Love you So Mochi by Sarah Kuhn (race and ethnicity)

When Kimi visits her grandparents in Japan, she is relieved to escape her problems back home. But soon the trip becomes a way for Kimi to learn more about the mother she left behind, and to figure out where her own heart lies. 

The Candle and the Flame by Nafiza Azad (race and ethnicity)

This debut fantasy is set in a city along the Silk Road that is a refuge for those of all faiths, where a young woman is threatened by the war between two clans of powerful djinn.

If I Ever Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth (race and ethnicity)

Lewis "Shoe" Blake is used to the joys and difficulties of life on the Tuscarora Indian reservation. What he's not used to is white people being nice to him—people like George Haddonfield.

Pemba’s Song by Marilyn Nelson (race and ethnicity)

A Newbery Honor winner collaborates with a new writer in this hip-hop-inspired historical thriller. As a mystery unfolds, many truths are revealed—about honesty, freedom, redemption, and friendship.

Toning the Sweep by Angela Johnson (race and ethnicity)

Angela Johnson's Coretta Scott King Award-winning novel traces three generations of African American women as they learn one another's truths.

Push: Tyrell by Coe Booth (race and ethnicity)

Tyrell can’t get a break. He’s living with his spaced-out mother and little brother in a homeless shelter. His father’s in jail. His girlfriend supports him, but he doesn’t feel good enough for her.

Without Annette by Jane B. Mason (LGBTQIA+)

Josie has been looking forward to attending a prestigious boarding school, with her girlfriend, Annette, for ages. But beneath the school’s picture-perfect image lies a crippling sense of elitism.

Openly Straight by Bill Konigsberg (LGBTQIA+)

Rafe has been out since eighth grade—he isn't teased, and he goes to other high schools and talks about tolerance. And while that's important, he's ready for something else.

Technically, You Started It by Lana Wood Johnson (LGBTQIA+)

A hilarious, snarky, and utterly addicting #ourvoices debut that explores friendship, sexual orientation, mental health, and falling in love (even if things might be falling apart around you).

A Very, Very Bad Thing by Jeffery Self (LGBTQIA+)

Marley is one of the only gay kids in his North Carolina town—or at least that's true until Christopher shows up. Jeffery Self unforgettably shows how love can make us do all the wrong things for all the right reasons—especially if we see them as the only way to make love survive.

Drag Teen by Jeffery Self (LGBTQIA+)

JT feels like his life's hit a dead end. It looks like he'll always be stuck in Florida. But there's one shot for him—to become the next Miss Drag Teen in New York City.

The Letter Q by James Lecesne & Sarah Moon (LGBTQIA+)

In this anthology, 63 award-winning authors make imaginative journeys into their pasts, telling their younger selves what they would have liked to know then about their lives as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender people.

And She Was by Jessica Verdi (LGBTQIA+)

An incredibly timely, sensitive, and riveting portrayal of a teen girl's relationship with her transgender mom. The back matter includes an author's note and resources for readers.

Vanilla by Billy Merrell (LGBTQIA+)

Vanilla and Hunter have been dating since seventh grade and became that couple in high school that everyone always sees as a couple. But now they're becoming different people and wanting different things from the relationship. Can they be together?

Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Mental Health)

The powerful, unforgettable graphic memoir from Jarrett Krosoczka, about growing up with a drug-addicted mother, a missing father, and two unforgettably opinionated grandparents.

The Arrival by Shaun Tan (Immigration)

Shaun Tan evokes universal aspects of an immigrant's experience through brilliantly clear and mesmerizing images. The reader experiences the main character's isolation—and shares his ultimate joy.

The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg (race and ethnicity/LGBTQIA+)

A story about two teens falling in love over a summer that throws everything possible to keep them apart. Max and Jordan will have to face their biggest fears and decide what they're willing to risk to get the thing they want the most.

I Wish You all the Best by Mason Deaver (race and ethnicity/LGBTQIA+)

When Ben comes out as nonbinary, they're thrown out of their house and have to start over at a new school. But as Ben grows close to the charismatic Nathan, there might just be a chance to start a happier new life.

The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan (race and ethnicity/LGBTQIA+)

Rukhsana is finding it impossible to live up to her conservative Muslim parents' expectations. Luckily, it's only a few more months until her new life at Caltech. But when her parents catch her kissing her girlfriend, all of Rukhsana's plans fall apart. 

The Porcupine of Truth by Bill Konigsberg (race and ethnicity/LGBTQIA+)

Carson is helping his mom take care of his father, a dying alcoholic, when he meets Aisha, a beautiful girl who has run away from her difficult family. Together they embark on an epic road trip to try and save Carson's dad, restore his fragmented family, and discover the "Porcupine of Truth" in all of their lives.

Sparrow by Sarah Moon (race and ethnicity/mental health)

The story of a sensitive, gifted African American girl who tells us with mordant humor what it feels like to spend every day wishing so hard that you could fly away from it all.

Cicada by Shaun Tan (race and ethnicity/mental health)

An inspirational story for older picture book readers and beyond. Cicada tells the story of a hardworking little cicada who is completely unappreciated for what he does. But in the end, just when you think he's given up, he make a transformation into something ineffably beautiful.

Sunrise over Fallujah  by Walter Dean Myers (race and ethnicity/mental health)

Robin "Birdy" Perry, a new army recruit from Harlem, isn't quite sure why he joined the army, but he's sure where he's headed: Iraq. Officially, their maneuvers are called Operation Iraqi Freedom. But the young men and women in the CA unit have a simpler name for it: WAR.

The Memory of Light by Francisco X. Stork (race and ethnicity/mental health)

Inspired in part by the author's own experience with depression, this is a rare young adult novel that focuses not on the events leading up to a suicide attempt, but the recovery from one—about living when life doesn't seem worth it, and how we go on anyway

Spin by Lamar Giles (race and ethnicity/social justice)

When rising star Paris Secord is found dead on her turntables, it sends the local music scene reeling. No one is feeling that grief more than her shunned pre-fame best friend, Kya, and chief groupie, Fuse.

The Freedom Summer Murders by Don Mitchell (race and ethnicity/social justice)

In June of 1964, three idealistic young men trying to register African Americans to vote were lynched by the Ku Klux Klan in Mississippi. This is the first book for young people to take a comprehensive look at these brutal murders. 

Overturned by Lamar Giles (race and ethnicity/social justice)

When Nikki's dad's murder conviction is overturned, and he comes home to one of the biggest casinos on the Las Vegas strip, Nikki is drawn into his deadly hunt for the truth and soon finds herself playing for the biggest gamble ever—her life.

Becoming Maria by Sonia Manzano (race and ethnicity/social justice)

One of America's most influential Hispanics—"Maria" on Sesame Street—delivers a beautifully wrought coming-of-age memoir set in the 1950s in the Bronx, with a Latino family that is loving—and troubled.

Chasing King’s Killer by James L. Swanson (race and ethnicity/social justice)

An astonishing account of the assassination of America's most beloved and celebrated civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, by New York Times bestselling author, Jame L. Swanson.

The Lines We Cross by Randa Abdel-Fattah (race and ethnicity/social justice)

A remarkable story about the power of tolerance from one of the most important voices in contemporary Muslim literature, critically acclaimed author Randa Abdel-Fattah.

Give Me Some Truth by Eric Gansworth (race and ethnicity/social justice)

Carson Mastick is desperate to make his mark, on the reservation and off. Maggi Bokoni has just moved back to the reservation with her family. Carson and Maggi—along with their friend Lewis—will navigate loud protests, even louder music, and first love.

Sorry Not Sorry by Jaime Reed (race and ethnicity/physical disability)

Janelle and Alyssa were BFFs until Alyssa became the leader of the shallowest girls and Janelle got involved in activism. But, suddenly, Alyssa's diabetes turns life-threatening—and Janelle is a perfect match.

Untwine by Edwidge Danticat (race and ethnicity/physical disability)

A haunting and mesmerizing story about sisterhood, family, love, and loss by literary luminary Edwidge Danticat.

Same But Different by Holly Robinson Peete (race and ethnicity/neurodiversity)

Holly Robinson Peete pairs with her twins to share the challenges and triumphs of being a teen who has autism and the effects on family, school, friends, and life.

Unbecoming by Jenny Downham (LGBTQIA+/mental health)

Three women. Three generations. Three secrets. Katie's life is falling apart: Her best friend thinks she's a freak, her mother, Caroline, controls every aspect of her life, and her estranged grandmother, Mary, appears as if out of nowhere. 

Playing A Part by Marian Schwartz & Daria Wilke (LGBTQIA+/ immigration)

In June 2013, the Russian government passed laws prohibiting "gay propaganda." That same month, a Russian publisher released Playing a Part, a young adult novel with openly gay characters.

That’s Not What Happened by Kody Keplinger (LGBTQIA+/physical disability)

From New York Times bestseller Kody Keplinger comes an astonishing and thought-provoking exploration of the aftermath of tragedy, the power of narrative, and how we remember what we've lost.

The Call by Peadar O’Guilin (LGBTQIA+/physical disability)

In this genre-changing blend of fantasy, horror, post-apocalyptic, and folklore, Nessa is at an academy for teens training to fight for their lives against the cruel fairies—and she is determined to use everything she learns to prove everyone wrong and survive the call.

Run by Kody Keplinger (LGBTQIA+/physical disability)

Bo is a girl with a wild reputation. Agnes has never broken any of her parents’ rules, meant to protect their legally blind daughter. But somehow Bo and Agnes become best friends in this stunning novel about the risks we’ll take to save our friends...and ourselves.

The Greatest: Muhammad Ali by Walter Dean Myers (race and ethnicity/social justice/physical disability)

From his childhood in the segregated South to his final fight with Parkinson's disease, Muhammad Ali never backed down. An inspiring biography of Muhammad Ali from the legendary Walter Dean Myers.

Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork (race and ethnicity/social justice/neurodivergence)

Marcelo Sandoval hears music that nobody else can hear—part of an autism-like condition that no doctor has been able to identify. But his father has never fully believed in the music or Marcelo's differences, and he challenges Marcelo to work in the mailroom of his law firm for the summer...to join "the real world."

Pinned by Sharon G. Flake (race and ethnicity/physical disability /neurodivergence)

Award-winning author, Sharon G. Flake, presents a powerful novel about a teen boy and girl, each tackling disabilities. Autumn's learning disability makes reading a painful struggle, but as a wrestler, she can take down any problem. Adonis uses a wheelchair. But he's a strong reader who loves books.

All the Broken Pieces by Ann Burg (race and ethnicity/immigration/mental health)

Two years after being airlifted out of war-torn Vietnam, Matt Pin is haunted by what he left behind. Now, inside a caring adoptive home in the United States, a series of profound events force him to choose between silence and candor, blame and forgiveness, fear and freedom.

The Summer Prince by Alaya Dawn Johnson (race and ethnicity/social justice/LGBTQIA+)

The lush city of Palmares Tres shimmers with tech and tradition. In the midst of this vibrant metropolis, June Costa creates art that's sure to make her legendary. But her dreams of fame become something more when she meets Enki, the bold new Summer King.

Shadowshaper by Daniel José Older (race and ethnicity/social justice/LGBTQIA+)

Sierra Santiago planned an easy summer of making art, but when a corpse crashes their first party and the murals in her neighborhood start to weep tears, she must unravel family secrets, take down a killer, and save the future of shadowshaping

The Shadowshaper Cypher: Shadowhouse Fall by Daniel José Older(race and ethnicity/social justice/LGBTQIA+)

Thrust into an ancient struggle with enemies old and new, Sierra and Shadowhouse are determined to win.

The Game of Love and Death by Martha Brockenbrough(race and ethnicity/social justice/LGBTQIA+)

In the rainy Seattle of the 1920s, romance blooms among the jazz clubs, the mansions of the wealthy, and the shantytowns of the poor. But what is more powerful: love? Or death?

Resources: 

Scholastic.com

www.commonsensemedia.org

theartofeducation.edu

bookriot.com