Books can help to foster empathy and understanding in students, and to validate the experiences of those who don’t always see themselves reflected in the culture or the curriculum. If you would like to borrow any of these books, just email me and I will bring them to you. - Maya
This week's titles are selected from the books chosen by Haley H. and Mimi Gleason in honor of their Lillian Awards.
Other Words for Home, by Jasmine Warga
A lyrical and moving middle-grade novel in verse about a Syrian girl who moves to the United States.
Not If I Can Help It, by Carolyn Mackler
From award-winning Carolyn Mackler, the story of Willa, who has been living with Sensory Processing Disorder but is thrown for a BIG loop when her dad announces he's dating Willa's best friend's mom.
Strange Birds: A Field Guide to Ruffling Feathers, by Celià Pérez
After Ofelia, Aster, Cat, and Lane fail to persuade a local girls club to change an outdated tradition, they form an alternative group that shakes up their sleepy Florida town.
Charlie Hernández and the League of Shadows, by Ryan Calejo
Steeped in Hispanic folklore since childhood, middle-schooler Charlie Hern+ndez learns the stories are true when, shortly after his parents disappearance, he grows horns and feathers and finds himself at the heart of a battle to save the world. 5/16.
Each Tiny Spark, by Pablo Cartaya
Sixth-grader Emilia Torres struggles with ADHD, her controlling abuela, her mother's work commitments, her father's distance after returning from deployment, evolving friendships, and a conflict over school redistricting.
