Books Like...

"When Stars Are Scattered" is a heartwarming graphic novel memoir that follows the story of two Somali refugee brothers, Omar and Hassan, living in a camp in Kenya. The book delves into the challenges and resilience of the brothers as they navigate life in the camp, the struggles of being separated from their mother, and the daily hardships they face. Through vibrant illustrations and a simple yet powerful writing style, the book offers a poignant and eye-opening glimpse into the lives of refugees, capturing themes of hope, family, and perseverance.

Brown Girl Dreaming is an autobiographical account of Jacqueline Woodson's childhood experiences growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 1970s. The story is told through a series of free verse poems that highlight the challenges, joys, and growth of the author as she navigates different environments in the North and South, grappling with issues of racism, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Woodson's writing style beautifully captures the essence of her journey, providing readers with a poignant and insightful glimpse into her life.

Through the lens of poetry, Woodson delves into themes of identity, family, heritage, and the impact of historical events like the Civil Rights Movement on her upbringing. The book offers a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of a young girl coming of age in a time marked by racial tensions and social change, ultimately portraying a powerful narrative of resilience, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of storytelling.

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that intertwines three separate stories - one of Jin Wang, a Chinese American boy struggling to fit in at a white school, the story of the Monkey King from Chinese folklore, and the tale of a Caucasian family with a stereotyped Chinese cousin. These stories come together to illustrate themes of identity, acceptance, and the challenges of being different in a predominantly white society. The book addresses issues such as racism, stereotypes, and the Asian American experience through a blend of humor, fantasy, and relatable teenage struggles.

The novel is written in a comix style, featuring colorful illustrations that complement the storytelling. The plot weaves together the lives of the characters in a way that brings depth and complexity to the narrative, ultimately delivering a message of self-acceptance and tolerance. Through the combination of image and text, Gene Luen Yang masterfully creates a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, appealing to a wide range of readers, including middle school children and adults.

'Awkward' by Svetlana Chmakova follows the story of Penelope, a new student at Berrybrook Middle School, who faces the challenges of fitting in, dealing with bullying, and navigating the complexities of school club rivalries. The plot centers around Penelope's journey as she joins the art club, makes friends, and tries to mend her relationship with Jaime, a member of the science club. The book captures the essence of middle school experiences, highlighting themes of friendship, self-discovery, and overcoming awkward situations through vibrant illustrations and relatable characters. Chmakova's writing style combines humor, sincerity, and subtle messages, making it an engaging read for middle school students and graphic novel enthusiasts alike.

Peppi's character development from feeling awkward and guilty to finding her voice and place at Berrybrook, along with the positive message of owning up to mistakes and working through challenges, resonates with readers. The book addresses a variety of school-related issues such as bullying, social anxiety, club rivalries, and the importance of building friendships and self-confidence. Chmakova's storytelling skillfully weaves together the themes of acceptance, cooperation, and growing up, creating a heartwarming and relatable narrative that appeals to both young readers and adults reminiscing about their own middle school experiences.

'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis follows the Watson family as they navigate through life in Flint, Michigan, during the Civil Rights Movement. The story is narrated by Kenny, a young boy who struggles with acceptance at school and learns about racial prejudice. The family decides to take a trip to Birmingham, Alabama, to help straighten out Kenny's troublemaking older brother, Byron. Through a series of adventures and a tragic event caused by racial conflicts, the Watsons come to realize the importance of family and love.

The novel blends humor and tragedy, providing a realistic portrayal of a middle-class African American family in the 1960s. The episodic structure of the book allows readers to experience the everyday lives of the Watsons, while also touching on significant historical events like the church bombing in Birmingham. The story addresses themes of racism, family values, and personal growth, offering a poignant and engaging perspective on the challenges faced during the Civil Rights era.

Castle, known as Ghost, has had a challenging childhood with his father in jail for a violent act. He struggles at school and in his neighborhood, but finds solace in running. Joining a track team brings a sense of belonging and mentorship from Coach, helping Ghost navigate life's obstacles. The book delves into themes of teamwork, overcoming fears, and personal growth, all narrated with a conversational and authentic voice that draws readers in.

'The Crossover' by Kwame Alexander is a novel written in verse that tells the story of twin brothers, Josh and Jordan, who are basketball stars in middle school. The book explores the challenges the brothers face as they navigate family dynamics, basketball championships, and personal struggles. Through the use of poetry, the author captures the emotions, excitement, and rhythm of the sports world while delving into themes of love, loss, and the importance of family relationships.

The book's narrative follows Josh Bell's journey as he copes with his twin brother's growing distance due to a new romantic relationship, his father's health issues, and the pressures of school and basketball. As the brothers face obstacles and changes in their lives, the story highlights the bond between them and the impact of their choices on their family. 'The Crossover' blends elements of sports, family dynamics, and personal growth in a unique and engaging format that resonates with readers of all ages.

'Ghosts' by Raina Telgemeier is a heartwarming graphic novel that follows the story of two sisters, Catrina and Maya, as their family moves to a coastal town in Northern California for Maya's health, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. The town is filled with ghosts, and the sisters have differing reactions to this discovery, especially as the Day of the Dead approaches. The book beautifully weaves themes of sisterly love, illness, cultural heritage, and the acceptance of the unknown in a vibrant and colorful setting. Telgemeier's writing style expertly captures the emotions and complexities of the characters, making it a touching and relatable read for all ages.

The illustrations in 'Ghosts' are described as vibrant, colorful, and beautifully executed, bringing the story to life and complementing the narrative seamlessly. The plot delves into themes of family, illness, death, and the supernatural, offering a unique and engaging perspective on these topics through the lens of two young sisters. The book also explores cultural traditions such as Dia de los Muertos, adding depth and richness to the storyline while providing educational insights into different customs and beliefs.

'Black Brother, Black Brother' by Jewell Parker Rhodes is a poignant story that explores themes of racism, prejudice, and social injustice through the experiences of two brothers, one black and one almost white. The protagonist, Donte, faces discrimination and bullying at his new private school, leading him to take up fencing as a way to challenge the elite boys who mistreat him. The narrative skillfully weaves in truths of racism prevalent in society today, while also highlighting the complexities of familial relationships and the struggles faced by individuals who do not conform to societal norms. The book's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it suitable for a younger audience while still addressing important issues of identity and resilience.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia follows eleven-year-old Delphine and her two younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern, as they travel from Brooklyn to California to spend the summer with their estranged mother, Cecile. Expecting a fun-filled summer visiting Disneyland, the girls are instead sent to a day camp run by the Black Panthers, where they learn about their family, their country, and themselves. Through Delphine's perspective, readers witness the girls' journey of self-discovery and understanding during a tumultuous time in American history.