Books about racism

All American Boys is a powerful and timely novel that tackles the difficult realities of racial profiling and police brutality through the eyes of two high school students. When Rashad, a Black teenager, is brutally beaten by a police officer after a misunderstanding at a local bodega, the event is witnessed by Quinn, a white classmate who has always looked up to the officer. As the community becomes bitterly divided, both boys must grapple with their own beliefs, loyalties, and the harsh truths of the world around them.

This award-winning story is perfect for readers who are interested in social justice and contemporary issues. Written in alternating perspectives by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, it offers a raw and nuanced look at systemic racism and the courage required to speak out against injustice. It is an ideal choice for parents and educators looking for books that encourage critical thinking and empathy in young adults, making it a great companion to titles like The Hate U Give.

Highlights:

• Told through alternating perspectives for a multi-layered narrative.
• A thought-provoking exploration of racial tension and systemic bias.
• Encourages deep discussions about privilege, justice, and community.
• Recipient of the Coretta Scott King Author Honor and Walter Dean Myers Award.

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come is the powerful and deeply moving conclusion to Mildred D. Taylor’s legendary Logan family saga. Following the journey of Cassie Logan, whom readers first met in the Newbery Medal-winning Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, this novel spans decades of American history. From the Great Migration to the heights of the Civil Rights Movement, Cassie’s path takes her across the country—from Ohio and California to law school in Boston—before leading her back home to Mississippi to fight for justice and voter registration in the 1960s.

This book is a perfect choice for readers interested in American history, social justice, and multigenerational family stories. It offers a raw and honest look at the racist society of 20th-century America and the courageous individuals who fought for change. Ideal for fans of historical fiction who want to see how personal growth intertwines with historic milestones, this sweeping epic provides a fulfilling end to one of the most important series in young adult literature.

Highlights:

• The final chapter of the beloved Logan family saga spanning over forty years of storytelling.
• A detailed exploration of the Civil Rights Movement and the Great Migration through a personal lens.
• Follows Cassie Logan's evolution from a spirited girl into a determined lawyer and activist.
• Rich, evocative prose that captures the struggle and resilience of the African American experience.

Bloodmarked is the electrifying sequel to the award-winning Legendborn, continuing the story of Bree Matthews as she navigates a world of ancient magic and secret societies. This contemporary fantasy masterfully blends Arthurian legend with a powerful exploration of Black identity and the weight of ancestral history. It is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes adventures, complex magic systems, and stories that challenge systemic issues while delivering pulse-pounding action.

In this installment, Bree must go on the run to rescue her kidnapped love interest, Nick, while grappling with her own unpredictable powers as a Bloodcrafter and Medium. As she faces opposition from the Regents of the Order, she must turn to her ancestors to learn the true meaning of her strength. Ideal for fans of Cassandra Clare and Margaret Rogerson, this book is a great choice for older teens looking for a deep, immersive fantasy world with a strong, relatable protagonist.

Highlights:

• A unique and modern reimagining of King Arthur’s knights and magic.
• Deeply resonant themes of heritage, racism, and self-discovery.
• A compelling love triangle and intense character dynamics.
• High-stakes action involving demons, secret societies, and ancient wars.

Let the Circle Be Unbroken is the powerful and moving sequel to the Newbery Medal-winning Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Set in Mississippi during the Great Depression, the story continues to follow Cassie Logan and her family as they navigate the harsh realities of the Jim Crow South. This novel is a profound exploration of systemic racism, legal injustice, and the unbreakable bonds of family. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in American history, social justice, and stories of immense personal courage.

The narrative weaves together several intense storylines, including the trial of their friend T.J. before an all-white jury, a cousin's struggle with racial identity, and a neighbor's dangerous quest for the right to vote. Mildred D. Taylor's masterful storytelling brings the era to life with unflinching honesty and deep emotional resonance. This book is perfect for children who love historical sagas that challenge their perspective and inspire empathy through the lens of a family standing tall against prejudice.

Highlights:

• A deeply moving sequel to a beloved American classic.
• Explores complex themes of racial injustice and civil rights history.
• Focuses on the strength and unity of the Logan family.
• Perfect for classroom discussions on history and social themes.
• Features rich, evocative prose and unforgettable characters.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry is a powerful and essential Newbery Medal-winning novel that transports readers to Mississippi during the Great Depression. Through the eyes of nine-year-old Cassie Logan, children experience a year of profound growth and realization as her family fights to keep their land and their dignity in the face of systemic racism and social injustice. This moving story is perfect for children who love historical fiction that tackles deep, meaningful topics with heart and honesty.

Ideal for readers interested in American history and social justice, Mildred D. Taylor’s masterpiece explores the unbreakable bonds of family and the strength found in self-respect. As Cassie learns why her family's land is so vital to their independence, she also discovers her own voice. This book is a great choice for parents and educators looking to introduce complex themes of prejudice and resilience through a relatable and courageous young protagonist.

Highlights:

• A poignant exploration of racial injustice and the importance of family heritage.
• Features a strong, independent female protagonist in Cassie Logan.
• Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal and a cornerstone of historical children's literature.
• Perfect for classroom discussions on the Great Depression and the Jim Crow era.

Set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of World War II, The Road to Memphis follows seventeen-year-old Cassie Logan as she navigates the treacherous landscape of the Jim Crow South. This powerful entry in the beloved Logan family saga finds Cassie dreaming of law school, but her plans are interrupted by a violent confrontation. When her friend Moe stands up to his white tormentors, Cassie and her brother must risk everything to smuggle him out of Mississippi and toward the relative safety of Memphis. It is a gripping tale of loyalty, survival, and the harsh realities of racial injustice.

This novel is a great choice for readers who appreciate deeply moving historical narratives and complex characters. Ideal for teenagers and adults alike, it offers an unflinching look at American history through the eyes of a resilient young woman. Parents looking for books that spark meaningful conversations about civil rights, systemic racism, and moral courage will find this an essential addition to their library. It is perfect for children who love the Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry series or are ideal for readers interested in the historical struggles of the African American experience.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of racial tension in 1940s Mississippi.
• Follows the growth of the iconic protagonist Cassie Logan into adulthood.
• A high-stakes journey filled with tension, loyalty, and bravery.
• Written by Newbery Medalist Mildred D. Taylor with stunning cover art.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 is a powerful and humorous middle grade novel that follows the "Weird Watsons" of Flint, Michigan. Ten-year-old Kenny Watson navigates the ups and downs of family life, dealing with his "official juvenile delinquent" older brother, Byron, and his bossy little sister, Joetta. When Byron's behavior goes too far, the family decides to take a road trip to Birmingham, Alabama, to stay with their strict Grandma Sands, hoping she can set him straight.

This story is a perfect choice for children who love realistic family dynamics and laugh-out-loud humor. However, as the Watsons travel south during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, the tone shifts toward a profound exploration of history and social justice. The book culminates in a life-altering event that forces the family to lean on one another for strength and healing. It is an ideal read for readers interested in American history, offering a deeply personal perspective on a pivotal era.

Highlights:

• A masterful blend of side-splitting humor and poignant historical drama.
• Relatable sibling relationships and strong family values.
• An accessible introduction to the Civil Rights Movement and 1960s history.
• Winner of the Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Award.

The Well is a poignant and powerful novella by Newbery Award-winning author Mildred D. Taylor, serving as a compelling companion to the beloved Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Set during a devastating drought in the early 20th-century South, the story follows the Logan family as they navigate the complexities of racial tension and human dignity. While the Logans generously share their precious well water with both Black and white neighbors, the act of kindness is met with hostility from the Simms family. The narrative focuses on the friction between Hammer Logan and Charlie Simms, illustrating how pride and prejudice can lead to an inevitable explosion of conflict.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in American history and social justice. It provides a profound look at the challenges faced by African American families during the Jim Crow era, making it a perfect tool for parents and educators to discuss themes of equality and integrity. Fans of historical fiction will appreciate Taylor's masterful storytelling and her ability to create deeply resonant characters who stand tall in the face of adversity. It is a great choice for children who are ready to explore more serious social themes through a lens of courage and family loyalty.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of racial prejudice and human dignity in the American South.
• Part of the critically acclaimed Logan Family Saga by Mildred D. Taylor.
• Teaches important lessons about empathy, sharing, and standing up for what is right.
• An accessible entry point for younger readers to engage with complex historical social issues.