Non-Fiction

Hidden Figures

I like how this book highlights the important contributions made by African American women that can often be overlooked. The stories are inspiring and shows the importance of inclusion and how important it is to not give up. I particularly love this book because I was one of the main reasons why I pursued my degree in Computer Science, and I can't thank my 7th grade teacher enough for using this book to open my world to the other possibilities i had in life.
Lesson Idea: Students can research minority/female contributions in history
Author Website: Margot Lee Shetterly  / Instagram / Twitter

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Girl

I remember going through this book in middle school, and re-reading it, left be just as shocked as before. I feel like this book is as emotional and powerful as it is because its based on true events. I like how she finds moments of positivity and somewhat happiness even in terrible circumstances. The only challenge I see for students reading this is that some students may need some support understanding the historical context.
Lesson Idea: Students can write journal entries of their own, narrated from when they were going through a difficult time.

YouTube: Read Aloud

I Color Myself Different

This is such a good book that introduces identity and race in a way that young students can understand. The message about embracing who you are, no matter your background is strong and clear. My favorite part is how Colin describes that everything that makes him different makes him cool.
Lesson Idea: Students can make a positivity balloon on what makes them unique
Author Website: Colin Kaepernick / Instagram

YouTube: Read Aloud

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures

My favorite thing about this book is how it highlights different ways of thinking. It also shows autism in a way that younger children can respond and relate to, especially when they talked autism making her "different, but not less". Even with it, nothing held her back from chasing her dreams.
Lesson Idea: Students can find out which learning style works the best for them.
Author Website: Julia Finley Mosca / Instagram / Twitter

YouTube: Read Aloud

One Tiny Turtle

I love this book. Turtles are one of my favorite animals. I like how this book blends science and storytelling. I learned what a terrapin was and that sea turtles have nurseries in the sea.
Lesson Idea: Students can do a butterfly life cycle activity that has them label each stage
Author Website: Nicola Davies / Instagram

YouTube: Read Aloud

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