Recognizing a “golden age” of young adult literature, Silvey combines her considerable experience and a love of literature to identify and write about books for young adults. Many were written specifically for that audience; others were published as adult books but of interest to younger readers. The books are organized by subject that appeal to young adults (e.g., humor, horror, historical fiction) and that represent a level of quality. Additional titles are recommended, including audio books. Additionally, books are listed by geographic location and by suggested age ranges (up to 18).
Ellen and William Craft, an enslaved married couple, devised a daring plan to escape to freedom. Capitalizing on Ellen’s mixed race heritage and light skin, she would dress herself as a wealthy white man, while William posed as her slave.
Consider adding these titles by Native authors to your home or classroom library. Not only will they uplift Native voices and stories, but they will also give kiddos—and adults—access to new points of view and perspectives.
Matt Nolan is the high school drug dealer, deadbeat, and soon-to-be dropout according to everyone at his school. What no one knows is the only reason Matt sells drugs is to take care of his uncle Jack, who is dying of cancer. Amanda. Matt gets stuck with the overly-cheerful social outcast, Amanda, as partners in school and it’s only a matter of time until Amanda discovers Matt’s secret. But Amanda is used to dealing with heartbreak, and she’s determined to help Matt find a way to give life 100 percent.
Drama abounds in what might have happened if Austin Gollaher had not pulled the young Abraham Lincoln from a swollen Kentucky creek that day in 1816. This engaging tale was inspired and expanded from a real event noted by the author.
