Diversity

Full of messages about hiding yourself, authenticity, identity, being in costume to really be seen, trust, creation, and accomplishment, this fun read has wide appeal.

The post Book Review: Be Dazzled by Ryan La Sala appeared first on Teen Librarian Toolbox.

Some educators abandon teaching the Bard's work, while others update and enhance Shakespeare curricula.

From the pandemic and a presidential election, to school boards and systemic racism, SLJ's cover design and illustration helped tell the tale that was 2020.

The CDC recommends teachers and support staff get the coronavirus vaccine in the next round of distribution; the Black Caucus of ALA has put out its Best of the Best 2020 booklist; applications are being accepted for the Library of Congress Librarian in Residence program; and more in this edition of News Bites.

Publisher’s description A loose retelling of Cinderella, about a high-school graduate who—after getting grounded for the whole summer—joins a local Quidditch league and finds her footing, perfect for fans of Dumplin’, Fangirl, and everyone who’s read and adored Harry Potter.  17-year-old vegan feminist Ellen Lopez-Rourke has one muggy Houston summer left before college. She plans to spend […]

The post Book Review: This Is How We Fly by Anna Meriano appeared first on Teen Librarian Toolbox.

In an unprecedented year, managing the pandemic dominated attention. SLJ covered the gamut, from publisher policies adjusted to accommodate remote learning, to tips on running a virtual book club for middle schoolers. Despite all, fostering literacy and celebrating great books persisted as key topics of interest for our readers.

Ultimately, my review comes down to just simply saying THIS WAS ADORABLE.

The post Book Review: The Love Curse of Melody McIntyre by Robin Talley appeared first on Teen Librarian Toolbox.

The stories I heard growing up shaped my sense of family and community, as well as my place in the world. As a result, I knew early on that America did not love us. Yet, at the same time I knew how much my family respected and revered this country, loved being Black and believed that nothing, even Jim Crow and his offspring, could ever stop our assent. My family made sure I understood that.

Latinx creators have been receiving more recognition in recent years, and there is now a flourishing Latinx comics scene that includes a strong body of work for young people.