Kids Book Index
Ashley Herring Blake
Twelve-year-old Ivy Aberdeen’s home is destroyed by a tornado. In the aftermath, her sketchbook disappears, and its pages begin appearing in her school locker. The drawings show Ivy holding hands with another girl. As she faces the loss of her home and the exposure of her private sketches, Ivy begins to confront her feelings for a girl at school and her identity.
This book appears on 3 reading lists across 2 editions from 3 organizations.
Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak SpanishPablo CartayaFourteen-year-old Marcus Vega lives with his mother and younger brother Charlie, who has Down syndrome. After Marcus is suspended for punching a bully who used a slur against Charlie, the family visits relatives in Puerto Rico. Marcus’s father lives there, having left after Charlie was born, and Marcus hopes to see him. The trip brings Marcus into contact with family, culture, and heritage.Twelve to FourteenOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Jerome By HeartThomas ScottoRaphael cares deeply for his friend Jerome, who holds his hand, chooses him as a field-trip companion, and helps him feel safe. Raphael thinks often about Jerome and wants to find him the right gift. His parents object to the intensity of his feelings, leaving Raphael briefly isolated and at odds with their response. Still, he remains certain of his affection for Jerome. The story centers on the boys’ friendship and Raphael’s determination to acknowledge the feelings that bring him joy.Picture Books for School-Age ChildrenOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Jane Austen: Her Heart Did WhisperManuela Santoni, illustrated by Manuela Santoni, Matteo BenassiThis black-and-white graphic biography portrays Jane Austen in an England shaped by formal dances, courtships in courtyards, and strict expectations for women’s roles. Austen gave up her first love but continued to love writing. She observed the England around her and made art from it. The book also includes back matter.Twelve to FourteenOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details