CC-REads is a book recommendation initiative by Carroll Citizens for Racial Equity, with the goal to encourage our community members of all ages to engage with diverse literature.
Our fourth selection: How We Fight for Our Lives by Saeed Jones is a raw and lyrical memoir that delves into the author's journey of self-discovery, identity, and resilience. Jones recounts his experiences growing up as a Black, gay man in the American South, navigating complex relationships with family, lovers, and society at large. Through vivid prose and introspective storytelling, he explores themes of race, sexuality, and the search for belonging. Jones's narrative is both intimate and universal, offering readers a powerful reflection on the challenges and triumphs of living authentically in a world that often seeks to diminish one's identity. How We Fight for Our Lives is a profound and moving memoir that resonates long after the final page, offering readers a glimpse into the struggles and strength of the human spirit. It's intended for readers ages 18 and up.
Our third selection is The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen, a visually captivating and emotionally resonant graphic novel that weaves together fairy tales, family dynamics, and the challenges of communication and identity. Told through the lens of Tiến, a young Vietnamese American boy, the story follows his journey of coming out to his immigrant mother, who struggles with English. To bridge the language gap, Tiến utilizes their local library to share his favorite fairy tales with her, yearning for unconditional love and acceptance. Nguyen's warm and expressive artwork enhances the emotional depth of the narrative, beautifully exploring the complexities of family, culture, and self-discovery. The Magic Fish is the winner of the International Literacy Association's 2021 Young Adult Fiction Book Award and more. It's intended for readers ages 12 and up.
Our next selection is When Aiden Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff and Kaylani Juanita. It's a groundbreaking and heartwarming picture book that follows Aiden, a transgender boy, as he eagerly prepares for the arrival of his new sibling. The story beautifully explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the transformative power of becoming a brother. Lukoff's thoughtful narrative and Juanita's vibrant illustrations make this book a delightful and inclusive read for children and families. When Aiden Became a Brother is the winner of the 2020 Stonewall Book Award. It's intended for readers ages 3 and up.
CC-REads is a book recommendation initiative by Carroll Citizens for Racial Equity, with the goal to encourage our community members of all ages to engage with diverse literature. Please enjoy this first recommendation, and be on the lookout for more books to come.
Sabaa Tahir's All My Rage is a brilliant, unforgettable, and heart-wrenching contemporary novel about family and forgiveness, love and loss; it's a sweeping story that crosses generations and continents. Follow Salahudin and Noor as they confront challenges of young adulthood, including embracing their Pakistani American identities, grief, and much more. From one of today’s most cherished authors comes a story of young love, old regrets, and forgiveness—one that’s both tragic and poignant in its tender ferocity. All My Rage is an instant New York Times bestseller, National Book Award winner, and CCPL's 2023 Carroll Reads title. It's intended for readers ages 16 and up.
