Books Like...

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai is a poignant chapter book written in verse, narrated by a ten-year-old Vietnamese girl named H. The story follows H and her family as they flee Saigon during the Vietnam War, survive on a navy ship, and eventually settle in Alabama. The book highlights themes of immigration, adaptation to a new culture, discrimination, and the struggles faced by H as she navigates life in America.

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo is a novel powerfully written in verse, following the story of Xiomara, a young Dominican American girl from Harlem struggling with cultural, religious, and emotional conflicts. Xiomara finds solace in expressing herself through poetry as she navigates her teenage years, dealing with family expectations, first love, and finding her own voice. The book is written in a diary-like format, with each poem resembling an entry from Xiomara's point of view, showcasing her journey of self-discovery and empowerment through her words.

'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.

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.

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is a powerful novel written in verse, exploring the cycle of violence and revenge within inner-city communities. The story follows Will, a young man who embarks on an elevator ride armed with a gun, seeking to avenge the murder of his older brother Shawn. Throughout the elevator journey, Will encounters ghosts from his past, each representing a different aspect of his life and the consequences of following the rules of the street - no crying, no snitching, get revenge. The narrative delves into themes of grief, loss, and the impact of gun violence, presented in a compelling and thought-provoking manner.

Reynolds' writing style, characterized by short, poignant verses, creates a fast-paced and impactful reading experience. The use of free verse allows for a raw and emotional exploration of Will's inner turmoil and the complex decisions he faces. Through the concise yet evocative language, Reynolds captures the intense emotions and struggles of the characters, inviting readers to reflect on the consequences of violence and the choices we make in the face of tragedy.

'New Kid' by Jerry Craft follows the story of Jordan Banks, a young boy of color who starts attending a prestigious private school instead of the art school he dreamed of. Throughout the school year, Jordan faces challenges such as racism, microaggressions, and struggles to fit in as one of the few students of color at the school. Using his passion for drawing, Jordan navigates through social conflicts, bullies, and the complexities of being the new kid, all while dealing with issues of diversity and racism in his daily life. is a graphic novel that delves into serious topics like implicit bias and classism, with a mix of gentle humor that adds depth to the narrative.

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.

'Red at the Bone' by Jacqueline Woodson is a lyrical exploration of family, expectation, and disappointment, told through the interconnected stories of Melody, her mother Iris, her father Aubrey, and her grandparents. The novel moves back and forth in time, revealing the complex histories and relationships of two Black families living in Brooklyn. Woodson's spare prose conveys deep emotions and explores themes of race, class, parenthood, and identity within the context of a multi-generational family saga.

The book delves into the repercussions of a teen pregnancy on two African American families, capturing the intricacies of their relationships and the burden of history that shapes their lives. Through short vignettes and alternating perspectives, Woodson paints a poignant and powerful portrait of love, loss, and the enduring consequences of past decisions on present-day realities.

'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.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor is a realistic fiction novel set in Mississippi during the Great Depression. The story follows Cassie Logan, a young African American girl, and her family as they navigate the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. Through Cassie's eyes, readers witness the struggles and hardships faced by the Logan family, who are determined to protect their land and preserve their dignity in a society plagued by inequality and injustice. The writing style captures the historical setting accurately, portraying the challenges and triumphs of the characters in a poignant and thought-provoking manner.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry provides a powerful and moving portrayal of the Logan family's resilience in the face of racism and adversity. The novel delves into themes of courage, loyalty, and the importance of family bonds, offering a compelling narrative that sheds light on the harsh realities of the time period. Through Cassie's coming-of-age journey, readers gain insight into the struggles and triumphs of African American families in the South during a tumultuous era, making it a poignant and impactful read for audiences of all ages.