Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate

When civil war rages in Sudan, Kek is forced first to a refugee camp and then to the United States. He has seen his father and brother killed and has been separated from his mother. Home of the Brave follows Kek’s adjustment from his small farming village in Sudan to the freezing winters in Minnesota. In spite of such hardship, Kek’s charmingly optimistic voice finds beauty and hope in the world and the people around him.

Home of the Brave is one of my favorite books yet. Having worked closely with many African refugees, this book echoes what I saw of these wonderful people. These amazing refugees leave death and pain and are thrown into a new and frightening culture, but they bring light. Katherine Applegate’s beautiful verse and excellent characterization perfectly expose young readers to the refugee experience. I hope many children (and adults) can read about Kek and see the world through his eyes.

Recommended ages--9 and up (great family read aloud)

The Sweetest Spell by Suzanne Selfors

Emmeline Thistle was born a dirt-scratcher's daughter, one of a scorned group exiled to a life farming the Flatlands. Even among these outcasts, Emmeline is an outsider. Left to die in the woods as a baby because of a curled foot, she survived and now is considered strange and unlucky. Emmeline's life changes when a flood destroys her home village and she is swept downriver. In the home of her rescuers, she discovers her legendary and magical ability--churning cream into chocolate.

The ability to create chocolate, a lost and coveted delicacy, turns Emmeline from an outcast to the most sought after woman in Anglund. However, people desiring wealth and power are willing to do anything to control Emmeline and her gift while she wants only to be loved for herself. This magical story is perfect for fairytale lovers who also appreciate depth. Emmeline's story reveals her search for personal strength and lessons about the power of kindness.

Recommended ages--11 and up

The Boy in the Black Suit by Jason Reynolds

After Matt Miller’s mother dies, high school and regular life seem unimportant. Matt floats through life while his father turns to heavy drinking. When Mr. Ray offers Matt a job helping at his funeral home, Matt is worried it will be too difficult for him. But as he watches other people grieve, Matt feels less alone. Then he meets Love--a girl seemingly unaffected by her losses and Matt is determined to learn her secret.

The Boy in the Black Suit confronts major issues such as grief, alcoholism, and homelessness, but maintains a feeling of hope. Matt struggles with missing his mother, but doesn’t give up on life. His journey and the inspiring characters who help him provide a positive look at death and the lives of those who remain. Matt’s story is compelling and his voice teaches empathy and understanding. A positive read about difficult subjects.

Recommended ages--12 and up