Thread by @readiatrician

Am I about to shout out every book, author, and illustrator on the Central York school district banned book list?

You bet your reading glasses I am!

Because banning books stifles children's growth and this *pediatrician who loves to read* will not go down without a fight. 1/

We need mirrors and windows in what we read (esp kids). Mirrors reflect ourselves so we value ourselves. Windows show us other lives and experiences so we value everyone. Banning a (window) book shows exactly who/what one values. Make a banned book list your TBR list 2/

I'm doing the ENTIRE list (abc order). It will take days. It's worth it. If you👍🏼a book/creator, buy it! Go to the library! Rec it to a friend!

Follow @CYBannedBooks for info & to donate the banned books to Little Free Libraries in York, PA, sign a petition, donate $, etc 3/

My followers are all comprised of #kidlit people, medical people, or my mom. So-
1- #kidlit, I love you. You shape worlds and open minds. I will fight for you always
2- med friends, we shape minds too. Read/rec some of these! Your🧠deserves a COVID break
3- hi, mom
Let's go!📚 4/

A BIG Mooncake for Little Star @pacylin. This book about the mid-Autumn festival has cake, moon phases, & mother/daughter love. The pages have a dark background allowing the text and illustrations to shine like the night sky. It is sweet and playful and worth a look! 5/

A Bike Like Sergio's by @maribethboelts, illustrated by #NoahZJones A boy who longs for what his friends have finds $100. He wants to buy a bike like them, but he thinks about how the person who lost the money must feel & returns it. No $ reward but he is proud of himself! 6/

A Boy Called Bat (series) @ElanaKArnold, illustrated @minitreehouse follows Bat (Bixby Alexander Tam), a cool kid who happens to be on the autism spectrum. Real-life kid situations through a autism MC lens! All kids deserve to see themselves. I rec this book all the time. 7/

A Good Kind of Trouble @lisamooreramee is a book about the messiness of middle school in the midst of the BLM movement. Shay, a 12 yo girl, is caught between never wanting to make waves and wanting to stand up for what is right. Read this one now 8/

A is for Activist @InnosantoNagara is a classic ABC book that teaches the words that matter. A is for activitist. Advocate. Ally. Actively answering a call to action. E is for equal right and environmental justice. You get the idea. A gift for kids and parents alike 9/

A is for Audra: Broadway's Leading Ladies from A to Z @Johnny_Allman sumptuously illustrated by @PeterJEmmerich is an ABC rhyming book throwing roses at Broadway's best. Audra, Barbara, Carol Channing- they're all here. Your toes will be tapping from A-Z! 10/

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin #JenBryant illustrated by #MelissaSweet is a simplified biography of the celebrated African American painter, born in 1888. Illustrations pay homage to his style. The book is a story of an artist and a work of art. 11/

Ada Byron Lovelace & the Thinking Machine @lauriewallmark illustrated by @AprilChu. A poet's daughter who loved math instead. Ada was one of the first computer programmers, never credited for her work because of her gender. I didn't know her name. Now I won't forget it. 12/

African American Cowboys: True Heroes of the Old West #JeffreyBFuerst. A window into history I truly did not know. Pick up a copy to learn about the men who settled the west but didn't make it into your school history text 13/

All American Boys @JasonReynolds83 and @brendankiely is an exploration of police brutality and prejudice through the eyes of two narrators- Rashad, the teen who was attacked, and Quinn, the witness and fostered child of the involved cop. Painful ,raw, necessary 14/

All Are Welcome @AgentPenfold, illustrated @skaufmanart is a brightly colored, inclusive, rhyming book about school. Friends are enjoying class, sharing their unique lunches, playing at recess, making music and art, having a science fair. It is a DELIGHT, must read for fall 15/

All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto @IamGMJohnson weaves a collection of essays detailing his life as a Black queer person. There is love, violence, discussion of consent- nothing is held back. A book both for LGBTQIA+ teens and allies alike. Teens need the truth. 16/

All the Colors We Are #KatieKissinger photography by @chrisbohnhoff explores how we get our skin color in simple language for young readers. A celebration of melanin- why we have it, what is does, and why some people have more. 17/

All the World @LGartonScanlon illustrated @MarlaFrazee (Caldecott Honor) is one of my favorite bedtime books. The colors are soft & soothing, the poetry a lullaby. Following the beauty of the world, from a tiny shell to a wide panorama, all the world is you and me. 18/

Alma and How She Got Her Name @juanamartinez. Alma Sofia Esperanza Jose Pura Candela does not like her long name. It never fits! Her father tells her the story of all the people behind her name, who she honors, and the qualities they share. Now her name fits her just right! 🥰19/

Always My Dad #SharonDennisWyeth illustrated by #RaulColon is a touching story of two siblings clinging to memories of their father when his visits are unexpected and fleeting due to his job. A beautiful picture book about family and love even when parents are apart. 20/

Amal Unbound @aishacs A middle grade novel about a girl living in Pakistan, dreaming of being a teacher, home caring for her siblings, and then suddenly placed into servitude. This book is a compelling story of resilience and strength 21/

Amazing Grace @MARYMHOFFMAN illustrated by #CarolineBinch An imaginative girl who loves to act out stories wants to be Peter Pan in the school play. Kids say she can't because she is a girl and not white. Her mother and grandmother know she can! No spoilers, but she SOARS 😉22/

Amelia to Zora: 26 Women Who Changed the World @cynthiachinlee illustrated by #MeganHalsey & #SeanAddy in NOT an ABC baby book! 26 women, pioneers in their fields, each get a full page bio. Inspiring and eye-opening, this is a great holiday gift for your girls who read! 22/

This thread is already getting so much support. I’m keeping the energy going at work- picking my shirt for clinic was a tough decision! (I went with the @Jarrett_Lerner 🙂)

I’ll be back tonight with more books on the list. Thanks for helping me make some noise! 23/

American as Paneer Pie @supriyakelkar_ Lekha loves her Indian roots at home, hides them at school. When a hate crime shakes her town & a new Desi girl comes to town, proud of her culture & standing up to bullies, Lekha is lost. And the ending! You have to read this! 24/

An Indigenous People's History of the United States @rdunbaro is eye opening. 400 years of American history told through the lens of centuries-long silenced narrators. You think you know all about American history? You don't. I didn't. 25/

Anna Hibiscus (series) by #Atinuke, illustrated @laurentobia is a set of linked simple, lyrical stories about an extended family living together in "amazing Africa". I love every day kid adventures and this book does not disappoint. The pen illustrations are perfect 26/

Another by @theartoffunnews. Psst- that whimsical collection of kids clothes and home accessories you've seen at Target? He was famous for books first! Illustrations only, this book turns perspective on its head. What if a moonbeam was a magic portal? Where could you go? 27/

Around Our Way on Neighbors' Day @teebrownkidlit illustrated @charlottewebart is a vibrant block party that leaps off the page. Jump rope, barber shop banter, music...and the food! As the weather gets cool, this book will warm you right up. A celebration of community! 28/

As Brave As You @JasonReynolds83 opens with two brothers scooping dog poop with a shovel & flinging it into the woods. Out of Brooklyn for the summer, in VA with grandparents they barely know, this is a book of discovery. NO ONE writes boys like Reynolds. You need to read it 29/

Bayou Magic @jewell_p_rhodes combines a sultry summer in the south, mermaids, and environmental activism. You heard me right! This tale of magic and family set during the Gulf oil disaster is wonderful. Bonus- it's part of a trilogy so there are two more books to enjoy! 30/

Because @The_Pigeon illustrated @AmberRenArt. A girl becomes a composer b/c of a trip to the orchestra with her aunt. Beethoven ➡️Schubert ➡️musicians, all leading to a night of music. Everyone who helps is mentioned, from artists to ushers to train conductors. Brava! 31/

Before the Ever After @JackieWoodson is a novel-in-verse about ZJ and his dad-once a pro football player, now a man with CTE. A heart wrenching story about what it means to lose family traditions and how to move forward when a family member is forever changed 32/

Big Hair, Don't Care @CSwainBates illustrated by #MeganBair is the story of Lola and her really REALLY big hair! Lola shines in this rhyming love letter to natural hair. You want to see these illustrations- you will giggle all the way through (esp the hide and seek page!) 33/

Bilal Cooks Daal @aishacs illustrated @foxville_art got my kids to eat lentils. Bilal's favorite food is daal but his friends have never tried it. They help him make it, waiting patiently. It looks and smells new- will his friends like it too? Recipe included 😋34/

Brown Girl Dreaming is @JackieWoodson telling her own story, in verse. One of the greatest writers of our time, this @macfound genius talks about growing up as an African American during the Civil Rights movement and her path to becoming a writer. Required reading 35/

Friends, we have made it through the letters A&B! I am astonished at the support this thread has gotten so far. Thanks for helping me make some noise! "C" you tomorrow to add some more banned books to your TBR list! 36/

@CYBannedBooks is sharing that the ban has been reversed!! 🥳📚🥳💪

I’m still finishing the whole list. I’m doing this because books C-Z deserve to be boosted and if they get banned again, you’ll know their name. It’s too good a TBR list to stop now 😉 37/

Can I Touch Your Hair? @Irene_Latham @waterscharles illustrated @sean_qualls @SelinaAlko is a book of two fifth graders- one black and one white, working together on a poetry project. Using relatable experiences, they find common ground. 38/

Carmela Full of Wishes @mattdelapena illustrated by @theartoffunnews. 7 yo Carmela's birthday wish is to be old enough to go with her brother as he shops, goes to the laundromat, etc for the family. This author/illustrator team never fails to deliver perfect poignant books 39/

Cece Loves Science @kimberlyderting @srjohannes illustrated by @VashtiHarrison is a book about the scientific method starring two adorable kids. The question- do dogs like vegetables? My hypothesis is that kids and adults alike will love this sweet silly book about science! 40/

Changing the Equation: 50+ US Black Women in STEM by #TonyaBolden is a must read. Books like this can be dry, but Bolden writes in a style that is exciting and inspiring. This book is a triumph to those who have broken barriers and a call to action for the next girls in line 41/

Chasing Space (young readers ed) @Astro_Flow is a memoir pared down for young readers. This man has lived SO MANY lives! Pro football, astronaut, song writer, TV star...it's bananas. Want to say "how did one guy do all that?" Grab a copy! Plus, DIY experiments! 42/

Cilla Lee-Jenkins (series) @SusanSMTan illustrated @danawulf This adorable Chinese American main character needs to become a best selling author, thus securing her spot in the family before a new baby is born. Cilla's memoir is delightful, as is the series that follows 43/

Clap When You Land @acevedowrites is a YA novel-in-verse about the secrets family keeps and what you do when they are revealed. Told by alternating sisters (who did not know they were sisters until their father's tragic death), this book will grip your heart. I love this book 44/

Come With Me @HollyMMcGhee illustrated by @PascLemaitre a girl frightened by the hatred she sees on news and asks her parents how she can help. This book demonstrates the small, simple kindnesses we can extend everyday, no matter our age. We should all be reading this one 45/

Luiz Munoz Marin (Community Builders series) by #LindaandCharlesGeorge. This series is really well done, each book a biography of a person who shaped the culture and economy with sources cited and accessible. Near the anniversary of Maria, learn more about Puerto Rico here! 46/

Condoleezza Rice: Being the Best by #MaryDodsonWade. Are we noticing a trend on this list, banning books about smart women who think? A well written biography appropriate for younger readers 47/

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 @helainebecker illustrated by @DowPhumiruk is a magical picture book about the African American mathematician who recalculated the flight path after the Apollo disaster. Illustrations shine to simplify the science 48/

Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut @Author_DDB illust by @GordonCJamesArt pays homage to the barber shop. Talk about mirrors & windows? This book reflects Black boy joy. When my kids saw the barber scene @PixarSoul they said "a haircut is a big deal! Like in Crown!" 49/

Goodnight everyone! Aiming for D/E/F tomorrow, depending on the stress level at clinic. Remember if a book intrigues you, order it early from an indie bookstore or tell your library to buy a few copies! Thanks for following along with me 🥰📚💪

Daddy, There's A Noise Outside @BraswellKenneth illustrated #JoeDent #JulieAnderson is a primer on protests for grade school. The book is clear, direct, and informative. It deals with a heavy subject in an approachable way. Perfect for starting a conversation with kids 51/

Desmond Cole, Ghost Patrol (series) #AndresMiedoso illustrated #VictorRivas. Living in a spooky town, you get haunted from time to time. Enter Desmond & his scaredy-cat sidekick to save the day! Perfect for newly independent readers, super silly, & there are 15 books! 52/

Don't Touch My Hair @coilyandcute. Aria has big beautiful hair that she wears "wild or styled". It makes everyone so curious that they touch without permission, even under water or in space! A picture book about owning your beauty AND setting boundaries? Yes, please!! 53/

Drawn Together @bottomshelfbks illustrated @dsantat. A boy & his grandfather are different. Different language, different food. A mutual love of drawing brings them together- they don't need words at all. The illustrations speak volumes (lift the jacket for a surprise!) 54/

Dream Drum Girl @margaritapoet illustrated @rafaellopezart. A girl dreams of drumming but on her island, drums are for boys. She makes the world around her into music, even the beat of her heart. As she wins over her father and the island with her drum, all feel free to dream 55/

Dreamers @yuyimorales a woman and her baby, immigrants who crossed the border into California, find solace and safety in the public library. Their arduous journey is told in rich illustrations with warm colors that glow from the page. I tear up every time I read this one. 56/

Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and his Orchestra @AndreaDavisPink illustrated #BrianPinkney. Want to get a grade school reader into jazz? Here's your ticket! This biography will get toes tapping. Illustrations have a wavy quality that flows like the notes themselves 57/

Each Kindness @JackieWoodson illustrated #EBLewis When a Maya comes to a new school, with ragged clothes and tattered shoes, she keeps trying but cannot make a friend. Soon she moves away, and her classmate needs to sit with her unkindness 58/

Early Sunday Morning @MyBrownBaby illustrated #VanessaBrantleyNewton June and her family go to church every Sunday but this week is special- she has a solo with the youth choir! Her family helps with her nerves & June sings to the angels! Illustrations are awesome! 59/

Elizabeth Blackwell: First Woman Doctor #FranceneSabin My medical school was on Elizabeth Blackwell Street. Did you know her medical school acceptance letter was intended (by the college) as a practical joke?! Her story is astonishing and she inspires me today 60/

Encounter @JaneYolen illustrated @DavidShannon is the story of Christopher Columbus, as told by the people who got there first. A cautionary tale, a fascinating read, perfect for sharing with kids this October 11 61/

Enough! 20 Protestors Who Changed America @emily6560 illustrated @zzzyuair Each protestor gets only their first name and one line- the pictures tell the whole story here. Curious readers can explore more details on each protestor are given in the last pages 62/

Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks @AuthorSSlade, illustrated @CozbiHandmade is a lusciously drawn biography of the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize. The story about a loving family, believing in yourself & the beauty of words is a triumph 63/

Faith Ringgold #MikeVenezia is a biography in the series "Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists". This book combines photos, illustrations, and cartoon-esque commentary that makes reading about a historical figure even more fun. 64/

Fishing Day @AndreaDavisPink illustrated #ShaneEvans Reenie & her mom love to fish for fun but their day is often ruined by another family who needs to fish for food. This book discusses race, class, & gender in surprising ways. A small act can break down a big divide 65/

For Black Girls Like Me @marilock 11 yo Makeda is moving far away, leaving her best friend. She is also adopted and while she is black, her parents and sister are not. She feels "like a question mark" wondering where she fits in. A beautiful book about finding your way. 66/

Freedom in Congo Square @poetweatherford illustrated @rgcillustration A book counting down to the one free afternoon/week given to slaves on a Louisiana plantation. The rhyme scheme is simple but the book is not- the pain of slavery & joy in a moment of freedom is laid bare 67/

From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea @razorfemme illustrated @creationsLi #KaiYunChing A baby is born under both the sun & the moon does not know what to be. Celebrating gender fluidity for kids in a creative way, this book says "you can only be who you are" 68/

Front Desk @kellyyanghk turned my 12 yo son into a Kelly Yang fanboy. Mia wants to be an author. She lives in a motel, working the front desk while her parents clean (& hide fellow immigrants from the motel owner). This book of friendship & bravery now has TWO sequels out! 69/

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story @noblemaillard, illustrated by @juanamartinez. The book, complete with recipe 😋, explores this food first through the five senses and then more globally- fry bread is art, history, Nation. A great read and tasty treat! 70/

Full Full Full of Love #trishcooke, illustrated by #paulhoward. Jay Jay is visiting Grannie for Sunday dinner. Her house is full of hugs, full of family, full of food, full of smiles. This book is full of warmth! If you don't smile when you read it, your face is broken 71/

George @lxgino is the story of a boy who knows she is actually a girl named Melissa. She wants to star as Charlotte in the school play, Charlotte's Web. Ideal for middle grade readers, this mirror book trans kids also teaches how a friend can be a true ally 72/

Get Up, Stand Up @bobmarley @cedellamarley illustrated @JOHNJAYCABUAY A picture book adaptation of the famous song. Illustrations are bright & colorful, showing kids (one has the BEST blue hair) at school working though conflicts on the playground & the bus. You'll sing it! 73/

Ghost @JasonReynolds83 is the first book in the Track series. A middle school track team is on course for the Junior Olympics but they keep letting the past get in their way. I don't want to give anything away except to say that this author is magic. Read it! 74/

Ghost Boys @jewell_p_rhodes A 12yo boy mistakenly killed by a police officer narrates as a ghost, watching the aftermath of his death on society. He is guided by Emmett Till and others. Powerful and poignant, it opens the door to complex conversations with kids about race 75/

Girls Who Code (series) @staciadeutsch When I was 9, Babysitters Club was my jam. I think if I was 9 now, this would be my series! Girls working together, building apps and solving problems, all while having fun and building friendships 76/

Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code @lauriewallmark illustrated @thewildkat Starting with a catchy rhyme that leads into a fascinating biography of this engineer. Illustrations help readers grasp big concepts. Careful! After this book, kids might disassemble all your clocks 77/

Grandpa Cacao: A Tale of Chocolate From Farm to Family @ElizabethZunon This book is so much more than "how chocolate is made". It's the story of family & the work of the people behind the food we eat. I love how the story is framed within another story. Delicious! 78/

Hair Love @MatthewACherry illustrated @VashtiHarrison Zuri needs a special hairstyle for a special day, and needs her dad's help. This book about a father stepping up for his daughter makes me cry every time. My son read this on repeat for a month (he wants power puffs) 79/

Hands Up #BreannaJMcDaniel illustrated #ShaneWEvans A lyrical picture book, each page ending with "hands up". We raise our hands to dress, to cheer, to shoot a ball, to lift each other up, to protest. 80/

Hank's Big Day: The Story of a Bug @kuhlmancreative illustrated @ChuckGroenink A pill bug with a packed agenda and a date with his best friend. Illustrations in soft browns and greens, all with cheeky commentary (sneaking in some good vocab!) This book is the sweetest 81/

Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez #KathleenKrull illustrated @yuyimorales A story of a leader who believed "truth was a better weapon than violence- nonviolence takes more guts". I can't get enough of @yuyimorales color palettes in everything she draws 82/

Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad #EllenLevine illustrated @KadirNelson Henry decides to mail himself to Philadelphia to escape slavery. His arduous journey is beautifully illustrated, mainly on dark backgrounds, lightening up when he is free 83/

Hey Black Child #UseniEugenePerkins illustrated #BrianCollier asks "do you know who you are? Who you really are? Do you know you can be what you want to be?" Collaged illustrations showing Black children doing day to day things. A perfect mirror book 84/

Hey, Charleston! The True Story of the Jenkins Orphanage Band #AnneRockwell I did not know this wild story- a pastor forms an orphanage and to fund it, forms the kids into an orchestra (playing on old Civil War instruments), which leads to the development of Ragtime music. 85/

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race @margotshetterly #WinifredConkling illustrated #LauraFreeman Share the magic of these mathematicians made famous in the movie with younger audiences. Truly inspiring 86/

Home of the Brave: 15 Immigrants Who Shaped US History #BrookeKahn. This book shows how much of our culture, from our clothes to our art, is thanks to immigrants. Levi Strauss, Einstein, I.M. Pei, Madeleine Albright, Isabel Allende, Santana, & more are celebrated in the pages 87/

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue #KarenEnglish illustrated @javakasteptoe The heat has two best friends quarreling & the whole neighborhood tries to intervene. The chant of a double dutch jump rope game breaks the tension & a shared blue ice pop saves the day. Vibrant illustrations! 88/

How Many Stars in the Sky #LennyHort illustrated #JamesRansome Mom is away and a boy & his dad miss her so much, they can't sleep. They drive around town, trying to avoid ambient light, to count all the stars in the sky. Illustrations are blue toned, like the night sky 89/

I Am Enough @LadyGraceByers illustrated #KeturahBoBo simple, beautiful words affirming that children are enough, just as they are. They are meant to shine, to sing, to grow, to be everything they can be. Kindness abounds. Illustrations pop against plain white backgrounds 90/

I am Every Good Thing @authorderrickdb illustrated @GordonCJamesArt. A celebration of Black boys, told first person "I am good to the core. Like the center of a cinnamon roll...I am worthy of success of respect of safety of kindness of happiness" The art has so much movement! 91/

I am Human @susanverde illustrated @peterhreynolds explores the big feelings humans have- joy, wonder, delight, hurt, fear, sadness, hope. Humans can make choices & move forward. A simple book that explains empathy. @peterhreynolds art at its best- colorful and approachable! 92/

I am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter @ErikaLSanchez How much of who we are is shaped by our culture & family? How much do we really know about the ones we love? As she & her family move through grief, Julia discovers who she is, who her sister was, and who she wants to be 93/

I am Rosa Parks @bradmeltzer illustrated by @ChrisEliopoulos From the "Ordinary People Change the World" series (have you seen the amazing @PBSKIDS adaptation of these books?!?), this author/illustrator team helps kids see the extraordinary. Rosa Parks' story is no exception 94/

I Promise @KingJames illustrated @msbeautifique. A happy school poem, perfect for Sept, with kids promising to play fair in the "game of life", setting goals and intentions each day. Fun illustrations alternate between classroom scenes & the 🏀court. 95/

I'm a Pretty Little Black Girl! @BettyKBynum illustrated #ClaireArmstrongParod. A delightful group of girls, in all shades of brown, playing & smiling, growing up to show the world some BRILLIANCE! Part of a fantastic collection, these books are a great gift to anyone pretty 96/

Imani's Moon @janaybrownwood illustrated @hazelgmitchell A little girl, teased for her small size, decides to touch the moon. "A challenge is only impossible until someone accomplishes it". A folk tale w/beautiful illustrations, this book will have you believe all is possible 97/

Indian No More #CharleneWillingMcManis is a moving MG novel set in 1957 about the Indian Relocation Program. Regina and her family are declared "Indian no more" when the govt stops recognizing the Umpqua as a Tribe & move to LA. Amplifying a far too underrepresented voice, A+ 98/

Intersection Allies: We Make Room for All #ChelseaJohnson @council_latoya #CarolynChoi illustrated #AshleySeilSmith 9 kids tell a story in rhyming couplets with bold, approachable art. A book about identity, barriers, bias, & allies. "We strive to be equal but not the same". 99/

Islandborn @junotdiaz illustrated @Studio_Espinosa Lola needs to draw a pic of her first home, but doesn't remember it well. She interviews family & neighbors about her island. A story of immigration, political strife, & preserving memories. The pictures soar! 100/

Jabari Jumps @GaiaCC Jabari is ready to jump off the high dive. Or is he? This is not a book about being brave. It is a book about managing fear. Jabari's dad models how a parent can help an anxious child feel supported and empowered. I recommend this book all the time! 101/

Jack (Not Jackie) #EricaSilverman illustrated @hollyhatam A picture book about a transgender sibling, told from the perspective of the older sister. Parents are accepting, but Susan wants her baby sister back! This book about change & acceptance is perfect for young readers 102/

Jaden Toussaint the Greatest (series) @MartiAndreDumas Jaden has super powers, a genius brain, & sweet ninja moves, but somehow cannot convince his adults to give him more screen time. This book, and all those that follow, are hilarious reads with a STEM vibe 103/

Jasmine Toguchi (series) @DebbiMichiko illustrated @elizabetvukovic What if Ramona was Japanese-American? This series about an adventurous 8 yo girl and her family will have everyone falling head over heels. Smart, sassy, silly and unapologetically herself, I ❤️ Jasmine! 104/

Julian is a Mermaid #JessicaLove. Julian sees beautiful mermaids on the subway, heading to a parade, & wants to be just like them. He designs his own mermaid costume and his grandma gives him the perfect finishing touch. Watercolor & ink art is dreamy 105/

Keena Ford and the Second Grade Mix-Up (series) #MelissaThompson illustrated #FrankMorrison. Keena is a sweetheart with a talent for landing in sticky situations. From spilled secrets to field trip disasters to "stolen" cake, this series is chapter book fun at its best 106/

King and Kayla (series) @Dorihbutler illustrated @nancydrewit Adorable for young sleuths! King (a golden retriever) and Kayla (a human) gather facts and go on capers to solve everyday mysteries. This series is perfect for newly independent readers (and their pets) 107/

Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me @DanielBBeaty illustrated @BryanCo39521932 A boy suddenly facing his father's absence and the lessons his father leaves behind. The art has a collage look, the players paper cutouts overlaying the background scene 108/

Last Stop on Market Street @mattdelapena illustrated @theartoffunnews CJ & Nana ride the bus after church to serve at a soup kitchen. Nana finds beauty and gratitude in the every day things on the ride. Like Carmela and Milo (read those too!) this book is sweet & stirring 109/

Leila in Saffron @RGui8 illustrated #DinaraMirtalipova Leila is not sure she likes what she sees in the mirror. When her Nanni complements her saffron beads at dinner, she feels confident and starts to recognize all the pieces of her that are special 110/

Let the Children March @MonicaClarkRob illustrated #FrankMorrison A picture book illustrating the Civil Rights Movement. Nothing is candy-coated here. It is well done, w/art more informative than violent. The focus is on making a difference and the children leading the way. 111/

Like the Moon Loves the Sky @henakhanbooks illustrated #SaffaKhan Reassuring & suited for bedtime, this reads like a quiet benediction "Inshallah you are all that is gentle and good/Inshallah you feel safe like all children should" Art in a warm palette makes it feel cozy 112/

Lily and Dunkin @DGephartWrites should be on every MG reading list. A girl and a boy, each struggling with their own identity and finding friendship- what is more middle school than that? Acceptance, both of self and others, is the main theme here 113/

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History, both by @VashtiHarrison, one of my favorite author/illustrators, provide short bios on over 80 important historical figures PLUS a "how to draw" guide at the end. Gift worthy! 114/

Little Melba and her Big Trombone @KRussellBrown illustrated #FrankMorrison Rich with onomatopoeia, this picture book about a legend of jazz is a treat. Come for the great story but stay for the illustrations! The viewpoints and angles are magnificent 115/

Locked Up for Freedom #HeatherESchwartz During the summer of protest in 1963, many young girls (11-16 yo) were secretly locked away in a stockade as they fought for Civil Rights. Once imprisoned, they championed for freedom. I did not know their story, and we all should 116/

Lola Levine (series) @monicabrownbks illustrated @andominguez This 7 yo biracial, bicultural ball of energy is about to become your new best friend. I can't wait to share these stories of friendship with my matzah ball slurping, Peruvian chicken snacking, book loving kids 117/

Lola Reads (series) @AnnaMMcQuinn illustrated @RosBeardshaw Sweet books for young readers about everyday life with friendly illustrations. My favorites are Lola at the Library and Lola Reads to Leo (the best book to give to a big sister when there is a baby on the way!) 118/

Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in 10 Blocks @JasonReynolds83 This book- you just need to read it. 10 lives intersect after the dismissal bell rings. The title isn't about crossing traffic- it's looking at a person from every angle. Cry at the end of Ch 2 (Low Cuts)? DM me 119/

Lubna and Pebble @WendyMeddour illustrated @DanielEgneus A girl befriends a pebble on her way to (an implied) refugee camp with her father. This heartwarming book is a lovely way to start a gentle discussion about war and refugees with young readers.

Lucky Broken Girl @ruthbehar Set in 1960, Ruthie & her Cuban-Jewish family are getting acclimated in NYC when a car crash leaves her bedridden. This beautiful book of strength & community is timeless, but especially poignant now as all our worlds got smaller and moved inside 121/

Lulu and Duck in the Park (series) @hilary_mckay Lulu is a delightful animal lover in a classroom where no pets are allowed. When she finds a duck egg on the way to school, she saves it, knowing an egg does not break the rule. But, when it starts to hatch...uh oh! 122/

Mae Among the Stars @RodaWorld_ , illustrated by #StasiaBurrington. The story of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, written for young readers. This inspiring book with its friendly pictures tells kids- if you dream it and work hard, you can do it! 123/

Malala Yousafzai (A True Book: Biographies Series) #RobinDoak Like all biographies in this series, elementary age readers get reliable, approachable information about influential people with "pop up video" style fun facts and commentary 124/

@Malala has 2 banned books of her own on this list: "Malala: My Story of Standing up for Girls' Rights" &"Malala's Magic Pencil" (ill. #Kerascoet) I love that Malala published her story in various iterations for all level readers, so they can learn from her and grow with her 125/

Mango, Abuela, and Me @Meg_Medina illustrated @andominguez . A girl's "far away" Abuela moves in & shares her room. A language divide makes it hard to bond until a new parrot becomes a shared love. A book of love and patience, with lots of Spanish words! 126/

Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match @monicabrownbks illustrated #SaraPalacios Marisol has brown skin & orange hair. She likes clashing clothes, mash up lunch, and being bilingual. When she tries to match, her teacher reminds her that when she is herself, her creativity shines 127/

Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans @PhilBildner illustrated @johnparraart I adore this book about a sanitation worker who loves his job, works with pride, and has a "spirit and will that is waterproof" as his city recovers. 128/

Max and the Tag-Along Moon by the late, great #FloydCooper Max says goodnight to his grandpa and leaves for home, but the moon follows him for his whole drive. When Max sees the moon, he thinks of his grandpa, because his love for him shines on and on. 129/

Meet Yasmin (series) @SaadiaFaruqi illustrated @metahatem I love this series about imaginative, adventurous Yasmin and her Pakistani-American family. Supportive and loving, with just enough drama to keep kids turning the pages, Yasmin is sure to be a new friend for many 130/

Milo's Museum @zettaelliott illustrated #PurpleWong A book about representation for young readers. Milo is excited for her museum field trip because museums honor what is valuable/important. When she finds African American history lacking there, she makes a museum of her own 131/

Mindy Kim (series) @literarylyla illustrated #DungHo What is better than finding a new book? Discovering it is a series! Mindy Kim is in 2nd grade. She & her dad just moved to FL from CA. This girl starting fresh and trying to finagle a new puppy with have you beaming 132/

Mixed Me @TayeDiggs illustrated #ShaneWEvans Mike's parents say he is a "blend of dark and light, we mixed you perfectly and got you just right" A book celebrating individuality, I love that Mike says he is not mixed up, just mixed. 133/

Mommy Sayang #RosanaSullivan Little Aleeya and her mommy pray together, water hibiscus, cook, and do chores. They are inseparable, always by each other's side. When Mommy gets sick, Aleeya is lonely and lost. A gift of a flower and a promise to her Mommy helps her heal 134/

Monster Trouble @LaneFredrickson illustrated @mrobo57 Winifred isn't afraid. When bedtime monsters show up every night & try to scare her, she thinks they are cute- still, she needs to sleep! An adorable rhyming story & silly twist on "monsters under the bed" it's the best! 135/

Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress @CLBaldacchino illustrated #IsabelleMalenfant Morris loves school, especially the dress-up center with its tangerine dress that swishes and shoes that click. A glorious book about following your joy 136/

Mrs Katz and Tush @PatriciaPolacco Larnel befriends an older Jewish woman in his building and, worried she is lonely, brings her a stray cat. The two bond over the pet and their surprising similarities, becoming family. 137/

My Family Plays Music @JudyCoxauthor illustrated #ElbriteBrown A musical family allows young readers to experience the fiddle, cello, clarinet, guitar, triangle, cymbals, cowbell, vibes, woodblock, sax, maracas, pipe organ, and more. Each instrument's sound is described 138/

My Friend Maya Loves to Dance @cherylwilhudson illustrated @ericvelasquezny The rhymes in this book flow and sway like music and the illustrations convey movement beautifully. The narrator, revealed at the end, is in a wheelchair, experiencing dance through her friend 139/

My Hair is a Garden @CozbiHandmade Mackenzie is teased about her matted, unruly hair. Her neighbor, Miss Tillie, teaches her that her hair needs love and care, just like a backyard garden. This book celebrates the beauty of natural Black hair in delicate illustration 140/

My Papi Has a Motorcycle @isabelinpieces illustrated @zpvisual Papi comes home from work tired but always has time for his daughter. As they ride, they see neighborhood changing & the culture of the city, but love is the constant. The illustrations are ALIVE- so much to see! 141/

Nelson Beats the Odds @ronniesidneyii illustrated @TraciVanWagoner GN about a boy w/ ADHD & a learning disability who is moved into special ED & wants to keep it a secret. With support, Nelson discovers his resilience & learns what does (& does not) define him 142/

New Kid @JerryCraft One of my favorite GN, we follow Jordan into 7th grade in his new private school, across town and mostly white. Caught between two worlds, and not quite fitting into either one, is relatable to any middle school kid. Don't miss the sequel, Class Act 143/

Nikki and Deja (series) #KarenEnglish illustrated #LauraFreeman A book about two best friends navigating third grade, their families, & their block. When your young reader falls in love, and they will, they will be happy to know the adventures don't stop after book one! 144/

Nino Wrestles the World @yuyimorales This book is almost too fun to read aloud. Do you dream of being a wrestling announcer? Do you love making sound effects? Do you want to get more excited in English and Spanish with every page?!? Look no further! Plus, sibling love! 145/

Ninth Ward @jewell_p_rhodes Now, "9th ward" is synonymous w/ destruction, but before the storm it was so much more- a vibrant, close community. Told with the author's signature magical realism, this powerful book about Lanesha & her prescient mother facing Katrina astounds 146/

Noah Chases the Wind @michelle_author illustrated @Joseph_Cowman Noah knows he is different. When he can't understand something, it "hurts his head & his heart". He wants to know where the wind goes & follows it. Sensory stimuli in a way all readers can understand 147/

Not Norman: A Goldfish Story #KellyBennett illustrated #NoahZJones A boy gets a goldfish and is very disappointed. This is NOT the pet he had in mind. He tries to broker a trade and threatens to bring him back to the store, but ends up finding a friend. Silly and sweet 148/

Not Quite Snow White @DifferentAshley illustrated @artsyebby Tameika was born to be on stage & is a star. This year, the show is Snow White and the kids think she is not quite "princess material". Tameika shows that no matter what others say, they cannot dim your light 149/

Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain @CherylBardoe illustrated #BarbaraMcClintock A lover of math, undeterred by the dearth of women in the field, persists through rejections and failures to pursue her dream. A STEM book for all! 150/

On Our Street: Our First Talk About Poverty @DrJillRoberts @jcasap ill. #JaneHeinrichs Straightforward language w/ photography &illustration, this book provides age appropriate answers to difficult questions about poverty, homelessness, refugees & mental health. A must read 151/

On the Come Up @angiecthomas is a story about strength. Thomas writes the most engaging characters & Bri, an aspiring rapper who puts her experience into a song, to have those words twisted against her, is no exception. This book screams "your voice matters". 152/

One Green Apple #EveBunting illustrated #TedLewin A new student, learning English, wearing a dupatta, is trying to fit in on a school field trip to an orchard, while making apple cider. A book about how students can make someone new feel welcome 153/

Our Class is a Family @ShannonOlsenPR illustrated @sandiks A rhyming picture book about a classroom. School is a place to be yourself, make memories, learn, grow, and celebrate your uniqueness- just like in a family! Illustrations are sweet and colorful 154/

Parachutes @kellyyanghk Claire- a wealthy teen sent to study in the US (her parents are in Asia) & Dani- her host "sister" clash. There is plenty of soapy teen drama & deep ideas, but the crux is abuse and a woman's power to unapologetically report it. A must read for all 155/

Patina @JasonReynolds83 Part of the Track series (see Ghost, #74) Patty is another teammate, angling for the Junior Olympics. She runs away from some and in honor of others. A book about facing your fears and depending on others when you need help. 156/

Peanut Goes for the Gold @jvn illustrated #GillianReid Peanut does their own thing, even if it goes against what others think is "usual". When Peanut decides to be a rhythmic gymnast & the routine is threatened by a slip, they turn trouble into triumph! Super fun to read 157/

Peeny Butter Fudge #ToniMorrison #SladeMorrison illustrated #JoeCepeda Rhythm perfect for reading aloud. Mom is out & three kids are having a fun day with Nana. Nana riles them up & makes a huge mess, but all is smoothed over with mom when she is offered smiles and fudge 158/.

Pele: King of Soccer, El Rey del Futbol @monicabrownbks illustrated @RudyGutierrezJr A bilingual picture biography of Pele and his famous kick, winning Brazil its first World Cup. A story of the player, persistence, & his legendary 1000 goals, and

*couldn't edit above w/o losing 🧵
Pele: King of Soccer, El Rey del Futbol @monicabrownbks illustrated #RudyGutierrez A bilingual picture biography of Pele and his famous kick, winning Brazil its first World Cup. A story of the player, persistence, & his legendary 1000 goals 159/

Pink is for Boys @msmazeppa illustrated @petiteturk All colors are for all kids in this bright, happy picture book. Pages of electric play and activity, with kids of all colors enjoying all colors. You can hear the laughter jump off the page in these illustrations 160/

Planet Omar (series) @Zendibble illustrated #NasayaMafaridik This series about a Muslim American boy with a wild imagination is HILARIOUS. New kid in a new middle school is always a good plot line, but the quips and comic illustrations is what makes this book sing 161/

Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag @RobSandersWrite illustrated #StevenSalerno. First off, the art in this book is extraordinary. Every backdrop is intricately patterned in paisley. The story itself is extraordinary, too. A story of love, hope, and pride 162/

Prince and Knight @DanielHaack illustrated #StevieLewis Once upon a time, there was a prince and it was time to wed, but what if, instead of a bride, he wants a husband instead? A rhyming fairy tale with all the drama of a dragon slaying and the joy of happily ever after 163/