Featuring 500 diverse book recommendations covering a wide range of subjects, this preteen and teen reading guide is a "go-to resource for parents, students of young adult literature, teachers, and librarians" (School Library Journal).
Needed now more than ever: a guide that includes 500 reading recommendations for preteens and teens with the goal of inspiring greater empathy for themselves, their peers, and the world around them.
As young people are diagnosed with anxiety and depression in increasing numbers, or dealing with other issues that can isolate them from family and friendssuch as bullying, learning disabilities, racism, or homophobiacharacters in books can help them feel less alone. And just as important, reading books that feature a diverse range of real-life topics helps generate openness, empathy, and compassion in all kids. Reading lists are organized around topics, including:
Adoption and foster care
Body image
Immigration
Learning challenges
LGBTQIA+ youth
Mental health
Nature and environmentalism
Physical disability
Poverty and homelessness
Race and ethnicity
Religion and spirituality
Each chapter explores a particular issue affecting preteens and teens today and includes a list of recommended related booksall published within the last decade. Recommendations are grouped by age: those appropriate for middle-grade readers and those for teens. Better with Books is a valuable resource for parents, teachers, librarians, therapists, and all caregivers who recognize the power of literature to improve young readers' lives.