Growing Up in Santa Cruz

John Lewis has been a Congressional Representative for the state of Georgia since 1987, but before that, he was a major leader of the Civil Rights Movement. In this stunning graphic novel, he tells his story with the help of his aide, Aydin, and the talented graphic novelist Nate Powell. This is an incredibly powerful book, as well as an excellent example of how good a graphic novel can be.  --Flannery

When the South began integrate their schools in the late 50’s, all attention was on nine black students joining Arkansas’s Little Rock Central High School. The Little Rock Nine became the face of a movement as they battled discrimination and hatred while trying to get an education. Melba Patillo Beals was one of those teenagers, and this searing memoir is one of the classic texts of the Civil Rights Movement. This is an incredible book, and I recommend it to all teens.  --Flannery

Growing up black in the South was a dangerous thing to do. Some people are kind and welcoming to all, some people are not. Stella knows this, but she figures things are okay, as there hasn’t been any trouble in a while. Then one summer, that all changes. Her father wants to take the test to vote. The Klan is becoming active again. And Stella is there, watching, listening, learning, and writing it all down. This is a moving, uplifting story of family, community, and strength in the face of the worst kind of adversity.  --Flannery

In the late 1880’s, a call went out across America: Free land in Oklahoma, for any who will settle it. Many of those who rushed to claim that land were newly freed slaves, eager for a fresh start in a new place, and filled with the fire and hope required to survive settling the frontier. Based on her family’s own history, Joyce Carol Thomas has written a beautiful book that tells of that call and the hope that came with it. This lovely, lyrical book is perfect for reading out loud.  --Flannery

Long before the Civil Rights Movement, Ida B. Wells stood up and took a stand against discrimination. Growing up during Reconstruction, Wells saw what life could have been like for African Americans, and when it ended, she used the power of the printed press to advocate for change. In addition to fighting for black rights, Wells fought for the women’s right to vote. This wonderful picture book by noted author Walter Dean Myers is a fitting tribute to an incredible woman.  --Flannery

Anna Hibiscus lives in Africa, and she’s very happy there with her friends and family. But there’s one thing Africa can’t give her: Anna wants to see snow! This is a sweet, fun book about a charming, clever girl. If you’ve got a young reader who’s burned through Ivy & Bean, Judy Moody, or Junie B. Jones, give them the Anna Hibiscus series, and they’ll find a kindred spirit!  --Flannery

I think Miss Rumphius is a perfect children’s book. Based on a real woman, it tells the story of a lady who spends her youth adventuring, and her elder days scattering lupine seeds wherever she goes—making the world a more beautiful place. I love the message that something as small as scattering seeds can bring such joy to the world, and Cooney’s gorgeous illustrations bring me joy.
  --Flannery

Honestly, almost any Bill Peet book could go on this list. Clever, funny, with silly rhyming words to rival Dr. Seuss, Bill Peet’s books are perfect for children. His colored pencil drawings are wonderful, and his stories have a flow and cadence that makes them perfect for reading out loud.  --Flannery

This is my favorite Roald Dahl book. For one, what child’s dream isn’t to be in a candy factory like that? Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is sweet and heartwarming, dark and funny. I tear up every time I read the part where Charlie finds the golden ticket. To me, this is pure literary magic.  --Flannery