Kids Book Index
Adrianna Cuevas
Set in 1961 after the Bay of Pigs invasion strengthens Castro’s power in Cuba, this historical novel follows twelve-year-old Cumba. His family sends him alone to Florida, separating him from home and family. Homesick in the United States, Cumba must adjust to a new home, school, and language while holding onto memories of Cuba and hoping for reunion with his family.
This book appears on 2 reading lists across 1 edition from 2 organizations.
The 1619 Project: Born on the WaterNikole Hannah-Jones, Renée WatsonWritten in verse and illustrated by Nikkolas Smith, this picture book follows a student as she discovers her family’s concealed history. The account traces African American ancestry from 1619, considering both African ancestors’ lives before enslavement and slavery’s origins and lasting effects in the United States. Across this history, the student encounters a family legacy marked by endurance and hope.Nine to TwelveLexile Text Measure 860LATOS Book Level 5.5On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona JudgeRay Anthony ShepardThis poem-based account tells of Ona Judge’s escape from enslavement in George Washington’s household, where she served Martha Washington. Addressing Ona directly, the narrator repeatedly asks why she ran while recounting her life in the Washington home. After her escape, the book answers through Ona’s hopes to read, write, choose where to go, and ensure that her children would not be enslaved. The narrative centers her determination to claim freedom for herself and her future family.Five to NineOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Egg Marks the Spot (Skunk and Badger series)Amy Timberlake, illustrated by Jon KlassenSkunk and Badger set out on a field expedition for Badger’s rock research. Skunk is an inexperienced but eager backpacker, carrying an oversized pack to their campsite, while Badger searches for an agate. Instead, Badger discovers a dinosaur egg with a baby about to hatch. Badger’s cousin Fisher wants the rare egg and enlists Norway rats to remove it from its cave. Agatha and the other chickens, along with Skunk and Badger, work to protect the young creature.Nine to TwelveLexile Text Measure 619LATOS Book Level 4On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details