Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
BIG is a powerful, Caldecott-winning picture book that explores a child’s journey to self-love amidst societal pressure and bullying. With exquisite illustrations and spare text, this book is essential for teaching children that their unique identity should be celebrated, and that words have the power to both hurt and heal. Highly recommended for all elementary libraries.
This vivid reimagining of Arthurian legend blends magic, grief, and hidden history into an unforgettable journey. A bold, powerful fantasy that challenges who gets to be a hero.
This powerful middle grade novel shines light on the little known maroon communities of the South through a story filled with courage, family, and hope. Readers will be drawn in by its rich themes and compelling perspectives.
B. B. Alston’s Amari series blends magic, mystery, and heart. In The Great Game and The Despicable Wonders, Amari grows into a courageous young heroine facing moral choices and real-world parallels of prejudice and leadership. A must-read for middle grade fantasy fans.
Jacqueline Woodson’s Before the Ever After is a powerful novel in verse that explores the unseen costs of sports through the eyes of a young boy watching his father fade from repeated head injuries. Told with honesty and hope, it invites readers to reflect on family, memory, and resilience.