by SLJ Reviews

Juneteenth, the commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S., was established as a national holiday in 2021. Share these seven titles with young readers to help them understand the history of the June 19th holiday.

Share these seven titles, with a focus on trans identity, during Pride and all year long.

May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to remember and celebrate generations of Jewish Americans who helped shape American history and culture. Share these 29 titles that encompass the whole of the Jewish experience with your readers this month and all year long. 

Still slugging it out with Jane's evil stepmother, her treacherous schooldays, and the love-him hate-him Rochester? NCTE & SLJ want to refresh the canon with some new favorites that supply some of what we love about Jane Eyre—gothic settings, independent heroes, atmospherics—but skip the mad wife in the attic.

Sisterly bonds and friction, discussions of class, and post–Civil War historical fiction capture the essence of Little Women, Louisa May Alcott's most famous work. Plus, a biography of the author herself!

Hatchet is a well-known story, and the themes of adventure and survival remain great hooks for reluctant readers. Consider these nine titles as recent read-alikes for Gary Paulsen's popular tale.

The discussion around whether Shakespeare is still relevant in classrooms today is one that has been flourishing for years, with strong cases on all sides. Consider pairing some of the traditional works of the Bard with these newly reimagined stories.

Lee’s classic is perhaps one of the most widely read, lauded, and taught American novels. Refresh the curriculum with these complex depictions of anti-Black racism and the ongoing fight for justice. 

The Great Gatsby has gone through numerous retellings in various media, from movies to graphic novels. From a graphic novel adaptation to a contemporary thriller, here are nine works to read alongside the classic.