School is just around the corner, and kids are starting to get back into the flow of things. In these last weeks of summer, kids are reacquainting themselves with school supplies and earlier bedtimes, and in many cases, they are starting to read again.
If your kid has lapsed on the summer reading, engaging them in the days before school starts is important. You want to get fun reads that are going to inspire, but also some things that will get them thinking. These inclusive, interesting reads are great for kids of all ages.
'All Welcome Here' by James Preller
This collection of connected haiku poems explores different perspectives on the first day of school, from excitement to nervousness and everything in between. A diverse cast of characters makes their way through a special first day of school.
'When Charley Met Emma' by Amy Webb
Charley meets Emma on the playground and notices she uses a wheelchair. At first, he's not sure how to approach the situation, but he's friendly and talks to Emma. Not only does he learn about what makes her different, but he learns that they can still be great friends regardless.
'This Is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids From Around the World' by Matt Lamothe
This book will get kiddos thinking about what life is like for different people in different parts of the world. It follows seven kids through a day in their life, including going to school, eating meals, and having fun. Kids will be fascinated by both the similarities and the differences.
'The Mysterious Disappearance of Aidan S. (As Told to His Brother)' by David Levithan
This mystery with some sophisticated elements is an awesome pick for older grade school students and young middle grade readers. It tells the story of a boy who disappeared for six days, only to return with a story only his brother is willing to believe. It contains a diverse cast of characters and Narnia-like fantasy elements that kids with big imaginations will be excited about.
'Frankie & Bug' by Gayle Forman
Gayle Forman is known for great YA books, and her middle grade debut doesn't disappoint. She shares the story of 10-year-old Bug, who wants to spend the summer at the beach with her older brother. Fate has other plans, however, as Bug's brother is getting to the age where he wants to spend time with his friends, and her mom is busy with work thanks to a crime spree in their area. She makes friends with her neighbor's nephew, and together they learn important lessons about the world around them and each other.
'Take Back the Block' by Chrystal D. Giles
Wes Henderson is loving his life as a sixth grader until a real estate developer buys the blocks in his neighborhood, Kensington Oaks. Everyone in the neighborhood has different feelings, resulting in a lot of fighting between friends and neighbors. This book thoughtfully explores community, gentrification, justice, and friendship.
'The Shape of Thunder' by Jasmine Warga
A school shooting changes the lives of best friends Cora and Quinn. The two don't speak for a year as Quinn's family deals with what her brother has done and Cora's mourns her sister. Then they're brought together by an idea to go back and stop it all from happening. It explores friendship and loss in a touching and nuanced way.
'The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali' by Sabina Khan
Rukhsana Ali is torn between what her family wants and what her heart wants. Her family wants her to pursue a mega-powerful NASA career, but Rukhsana has a secret. She hasn't told her family about her white girlfriend, Ariana, but they find out, and it puts Rukhsana on a path that's unlike the future she'd spent so much time dreaming of.
'When You Look Like Us' by Pamela N. Harris
Jay Murphy is the only one advocating for his missing sister as authorities dismiss his family's concern. He worries about how many other missing Black girls are out there, not getting help because of people's biases. When Jay finds he can't get help the way he was taught how, he takes matters into his own hands.
'Marcelo in the Real World' by Francisco X. Stork
Marcelo is a 17-year-old living with an "autism-like" condition that lets him hear music like no one else. His father doesn't appreciate the gift and pushes Marcelo into working at the mail room of his law firm. Marcelo meets and makes friends, but he discovers the world might discount him because of his differences. He pushes past it to fight injustice.
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