Growing Readers: Learning to Love Reading and Writing Column 33
This editorial article was written by Lizzie Mussoline, M. Ed.
Read Highly Recommended Books That Inspire Action, Allyship, Community, and Powerful Conversations
The Children’s Book Review
Inspiring our own children to learn about the world around them—including the good, the bad, the sad, and the ugly—is difficult, but essential. Our schools are embracing more expansive topics, and including perspectives around citizenship, diversity, and equality. Throughout these units of study, students will reflect on ways people provide inspiration, support, and allyship in the pursuit of change. They will learn that they too can use their unique talents to take steps toward equality and justice. Such lessons will undoubtedly leave lasting impressions—but they require hard work on the part of our educators.
There are many age-appropriate books on heavy topics, written by brilliant authors to help readers learn, reflect, and hopefully, be inspired to take action. No matter their age, children of all ages can make positive impacts in their communities, and beyond, every single day.
Whether it’s a social issue that you care strongly about and are sharing with your children, one you are learning about together, or one they have shown passion for—books can help foster and support these efforts.
If you are a fan of this column, you know that I don’t think there is any age that is too old to enjoy the power of a picture book. You also know that I strongly believe in asking your local bookstores and librarians for their advice on the topics you are searching for. Following are just a few of the books that have come highly recommended and will help spark powerful conversations with the young and old readers in your lives.
Picture Books That Inspire Action, Allyship, Community, and Powerful Conversations
Our House is On Fire: Greta Thunberg’s Call to Save the Planet
Written and Illustrated by Jeanette Winter
Ages 3-8 | 40 Pages
Publisher: Beach Lane Books | ISBN-13: 9781534467781
Buy the Book
Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and a Hundred Sea Turtles
Written by Philippe Cousteau and Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrated by Meilo So
Ages 6-10 | 48 Pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books | ISBN-13: 9781452112411
Buy the Book
Emmanuel’s Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah
Written by Laurie Ann Thompson
Illustrated by Sean Qualls
Ages 5-9 | 40 Pages
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade | ISBN-13: 9780449817445
Buy the Book
She Persisted in Sports: American Olympians Who Changed the Game
Written by Chelsea Clinton
Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Ages 4-8 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Philomel Books | ISBN-13: 9780593114544
Buy the Book
What Can a Citizen Do?
Written by Dave Eggers
Illustrated by Shawn Harris
Ages 3-5 | 40 Pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books | ISBN-13: 9781452173139
Buy the Book
Love Is Powerful
Written by Heather Dean Brewer
Illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Ages 3-6 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Walker Books | ISBN-13: 9781406397437
Buy the Book
If You’re Going to a March
Written by Martha Freeman
Illustrated by Violet Kim
Ages 5+ | 32 Pages
Publisher: Union Square Kids | ISBN-13: 9781454929932
Buy the Book
Thank you for reading the Growing Readers: Learning to Love Reading and Writing column. Bookmark this Growing Readers Column link or subscribe to our e-newsletter so you do not miss out on the monthly reading tips. 7 Highly Recommended Books That Will Spark Powerful Conversations was written by Lizzie Mussoline, M. Ed.—follow her on Instagram: @wildflower_learning_denver.
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