The Power of Perseverance

Thinking Critically

The Thinking Critically series introduces students to the complex issues that dominate public discourse and challenges them to become discerning readers, to think independently, and to engage and develop their skills as critical thinkers. Chapters are organized in a pro/con format, in which a single author synthesizes the predominant arguments for and against an issue into clear, accessible discussions supported by details and evidence including relevant facts, direct quotes and current examples

Today Is Different

Standing together makes all of us stronger. Mai, a young Hmong girl, and Kiara, a young Black girl, are best friends. They do everything together-riding the bus, eating lunch, playing at recess. But one day Kiara misses school and Mai goes looking for answers. When she learns that her best friend is protesting an act of police violence against the Black community, Mai decides to join the protest too. Her parents at first want to protect her by keeping her at home, but she shows them that standin

Topics to Talk About (21st Century Junior Library)

The Topics to Talk About series covers important topics for discussion. From death to divorce, from racism to religion, complicated topics are broken down for young readers. Filled with engaging photos and captions, this series opens up opportunities for deeper thought and informed conversation.

Touch the Sky

Vern longed to be one of the kids who swooped until their toes touched the sky. He heads to the swings and desperately tries to pump his legs, but he just can't get it. A chance encounter with precocious (and hilarious) Gretchen gives him just what he needs to know, and he finally learns to soar. A story for every child on the cusp of learning something new who just needs an extra push to get there.

Understanding Disability (21st Century Junior Library)

This series explores disability in a comprehensive, honest, and age-appropriate way. Engaging inquiry-based side bars encourage students to LOOK, THINK, MAKE A GUESS, ASK QUESTIONS, and CREATE. Books are authored by writers with disabilities and the series has been developed in partnership with Easterseals who is leading the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services.

Vibrant Neighborhoods / Vecindarios Vibrantes

Visit the bilingual and multicultural Latinx communities embracing their shared heritage. The Racial Justice in America: Latinx Excellence and Achievement series illuminates and celebrates Latinx achievement and culture, while exploring racism in an honest and age-appropriate way. Written by Brenda Mendoza, an author, advocate, and winner of the 2022 Latinx Educator Impact Award from the Latinx Education Collaborative. Books include 21st Century Skills and content as well as an activity across b

We Are the Dreams of Our Ancestors

We are the hopes and dreams of our ancestors. We are unstoppable! This powerful poem was written by five Black, bold, and brilliant children, along with Wisdom Mawusi, writer, educator, and activist. Through vibrant illustrations and rhythmic language, this enchanting book celebrates different cultures and teaches children the values of kindness, fairness, and community.

We Are the Scrappy Ones

We are the scrappy ones. / We live, we adapt, we defy. / Made of stardust and grit, we are spectacular. Author and disability advocate Rebekah Taussig has written an anthem of belonging, celebrating the wide range of disabled children and affirming their worth, just as they are. Luminous illustrations by Kirbi Fagan portray a diverse cast of characters living, learning, and playing. A warm, joy-filled book for disabled and non-disabled readers alike.

We Belong

We all belong! You and I, we're alike, but we're different too. That's not good. That's not bad. It's just what is true. Explore and celebrate who you are and who others are too! Rhyming verse by Laura Purdie Salas invites others to notice the diversity of our world and affirm that we all belong, just as we are. Bright illustrations by Carlos Vélez Aquilera feature a diverse group of children, playing and learning in an urban setting.