Kids Book Index
Melanie Florence
Set in contemporary Canada, this story follows a granddaughter and her Cree grandfather as they recover words from his language together. His memories include a First Nations residential school that took those words from him. With her help, he begins to remember Cree and reconnect with the familiarity and beauty of the language.
This book appears on 1 reading list across 1 edition.
Calico GirlJerdine NolenSet at the beginning of the Civil War, this historical novel concerns twelve-year-old Callie Wilcomb and her enslaved family. After Virginia’s secession, the Contraband Law creates protection that means enslaved people need not be returned to enslavers. Callie’s family escapes and heads to Union-held Fort Monroe in Virginia. As freedom becomes possible, Callie wants an education and hopes she may later teach other people. The account also describes hardship, loss, love, and enduring family connections.Nine to TwelveOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
My Brigadista YearKatherine Paterson, map by Mike ReaganSet in Cuba in 1961, this historical novel follows thirteen-year-old Lora as she joins Fidel Castro’s national literacy campaign. She travels into impoverished rural areas to teach fellow Cubans to read and write. Lora’s decision takes her away from her parents and into danger from counterrevolutionaries in the hills. Her year of service combines a coming-of-age experience with the effort to bring literacy across the country.Nine to TwelveOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
SuperstarMandy DavisSpace-obsessed ten-year-old Lester Musselbaum begins fifth grade at Quarry Elementary after years of homeschooling. Public school is far more difficult than he expected: the cafeteria is painfully loud, there are many unfamiliar students, and a bully is part of his new routine. As Lester adjusts, he tries to make friends and find the thing that feels right for him. During this time, he learns that he is on the autism spectrum. A science fair also becomes an important moment for Lester, though events do not unfold as simply as he hopes.Nine to TwelveOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details