Kids Book Index
Darcey Rosenblatt
Set during the Iran-Iraq conflict of 1982, this historical novel follows Riza, a 12-year-old prisoner of war held in Iraq. His survival is tested in a country at war, while music becomes a refuge. The story also presents differing attitudes toward the conflict on its two sides.
This book appears on 1 reading list across 1 edition.
The Pants ProjectCat ClarkeLiv works to change his middle school’s strict dress code while trying to decide how to come out as transgender. His effort to wear clothes that fit his identity is tied to the larger challenge of telling others who he is. Told with humor, the story follows Liv’s campaign against the school rule and his search for a way to share this part of himself.CONTEMPORARY CONCERNSLexile Text Measure 710LATOS Book Level 4.5On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime that Changed Their LivesDashka SlaterDashka Slater recounts a real incident on a bus in Oakland, California, involving two teenagers. An agender teenager was burned by another teenager during the ride. The informational account draws on many sources and presents the viewpoints of different people connected to the event. It addresses gender, racism, poverty, and the justice system, and includes an author’s note, a timeline of gender-neutrality milestones, and statistics on U.S. juvenile incarceration.CONTEMPORARY CONCERNSOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
One Good Thing about AmericaRuth FreemanTold from the viewpoint of a middle-school refugee, this novel follows a young girl beginning a new life in America. She experiences cultural confusion and homesickness while confronting challenges faced by immigrants. Her perspective also considers differences and similarities between cultures. The book includes an author’s note, further information, and English words Anaïs is learning.CONTEMPORARY CONCERNSLexile Text Measure 570LATOS Book Level 3.9On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details