May 2025

Sadia by Colleen Nelson – A Powerful YA Novel About Identity, Sports, and Social Justice

4 Star, Book Reviews, Classroom Library, Grade, Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, Highschool, Literature Circles, Teaching /

I recently read Sadia by Colleen Nelson and immediately knew it needed a place on every middle school classroom bookshelf. This award-winning Canadian novel is an excellent example of inclusive young adult fiction. It explores themes of identity, friendship, belonging, and standing up for what’s right—all through the eyes of a determined teen girl navigating […]

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The Proudest Blue – A Picture Book That Champions Identity, Family, and Resilience

4 Star, Black Authors, Book Reviews, Classroom Library, Grade, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Read Aloud, Teaching /

When I first read The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family, I knew it would spark meaningful classroom conversations. Written by Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and author S.K. Ali, this picture book shares a touching story of pride, identity, and strength. The illustrations by Hatem Aly make it even more powerful. If you’re

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