Social Justice and Activism for Teens
A selection of fiction and nonfiction titles that explore activism and social justice issues past and present, including climate change, LGBTQ rights, racial justice, women's rights, Indigenous rights, immigration and more. MS=books for Middle School readers
Updated June 2022
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Our Stories Carried Us Here
Sobering and insightful, ten first person stories told and illustrated by immigrants and refugees. See their challenges and how they faced them. MS
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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YFA
Twenty-five amazing youths stood up for their beliefs, challenged the status quo, and fought to change the world. MS
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Kneel
Russell kneels during the national anthem in protest after his best friend is unfairly arrested and kicked off their football team. Facing backlash, Russell fights for justice with help from an unlikely ally.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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We Are Not Free
Fourteen Japanese-American teens must rally to fight racism and oppression when they and their families are sent to internment camps in World War Two. MS
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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The Voting Booth
When Duke is turned away from the polls on election day, Marva vows to drive him to the proper polling site in spite of her unenthusiastic boyfriend.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Say Her Name
In 49 poems and haiku, Zetta Elliott honors the lives of Black women lost to police violence and lifts up the voices of Black Lives Matter activists.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Malcolm and Me
When Roberta clashes with her white teacher, the struggle leads her to research the life of her dad's hero, Malcolm X.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Rise Up!
Learn about the long history of racism and white supremacy, and then learn how you can help create a more inclusive world.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Rolling Warrior
Paralyzed by polio as a child, Judy learned to fight for her right to go to school, and eventually, even to become a teacher.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Unfree Speech
Since his first student-led protest at age 14, Jason Wong has mobilized thousands of citizens to preserve Hong Kong's autonomy.
Format: Book
Availability: Available