We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom & Michaela Goade

An inspiring, Caldecott Medal-winning rallying cry! A translation of complex modern environmental justice and Indigenous-led movements into a beautiful, accessible message. Rich with themes of ancestry and community responsibility is an ideal gateway for exploring environmental stewardship, modern Native American voices, and the power of civic activism.

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Black Is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy, Ekua Holmes

A powerful, lyrical anthem of identity! A beautiful guide from simple everyday observations to a profound appreciation of Black history, culture, and activism. Packed with exceptional educational back-matter—including poems, timelines, and a playlist to celebrate community heritage.

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Borders by Thomas King & Natasha Donovan

A powerful and wryly funny graphic novel adaptation, Borders follows a Blackfoot mother and son trapped in legal limbo at the U.S.-Canada border. Seamlessly blending Thomas King’s sharp narrative with Natasha Donovan’s breathtaking illustrations, this book is a must-have for middle school libraries looking to spark profound student discussions on identity, sovereignty, and visual literacy.

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The American Queen by Vanessa Miller

Based on the little-known true story of the Kingdom of the Happy Land, The American Queen explores the challenges and hopes of formerly enslaved people during Reconstruction. While the pacing may not appeal to every reader, the novel shines a light on an important and often overlooked chapter of American history, making it a valuable addition to high school history and literature collections.

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