BOOK MARKED
EARLY ELEMENTARY BOOKS
“Mama’s Days”
by Andi Diehn, illustrated by Ángeles Ruiz
A little girl tells the story of a princess, a queen and
a misunderstood dragon in order to process her
mother’s unstable emotions. A thoughtfully told
story, with beautiful illustrations, about the ups
and downs of parental depression. The story is told
without blame and presents a strong little girl, full
of hope for tomorrow.

“Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?”
by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Jen Kha-
tun Sona Sharma wants to be the very best big sis-
ter she can be, even if she isn’t so sure she wants
a little sister or brother. Regardless, Sona is deter-
mined to pick out the perfect name for her new
sibling’s baby-naming ceremony. Set in India, this
early chapter book is charming and perfect for
older siblings who need a little warming up to the
idea of change.

“Too Small Tola”
by Atinuke
In the busy city of Lagos, Nigeria, Tola lives in
an apartment with her sister, brother and grand-
mommy. She may be tiny, but she is always ready
to help her family and community in big ways.

Written through the eyes of little Tola, with fun
illustrations, simple sentences and clear language,
this book provides enjoyment for readers as they
follow the ups and downs of mighty little Tola.

MIDDLE GRADE
“Lasagna Means I Love You”
by Kate O’Shaughnessy
When Mo’s Nan passes away, she is sent to a fos-
ter home where she finds an old family recipe book.

The book becomes a lifeline for Mo, and as she
starts pulling together her own collection of family
recipes, she starts to realize that some families are
made, not found. A heartfelt, middle grade novel
that deals with mourning a loved one, foster care
and found families.

“New From Here”
by Kelly Yang
When the coronavirus hits Hong Kong, Knox’s
mother decides to move him and his siblings back
to California, while his father stays in China for
work. Now Knox must learn to fit in at a new
school where he is ostracized for being Asian.

This novel is about separation, fear, hate and the
strength of family to pull one through.

“Squished” by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by
Michelle Mee Nutter
For 11-year-old Avery Lee, finding some time to her-
self can be tough, especially with six brothers and
sisters. Longing for her own room, Avery hatches
a plan that might be thwarted when she finds out
her family could be moving. A graphic novel for any
large household about finding your own space and
growing up in a changing family dynamic.

“Tumble” by Celia C. Pérez
Twelve-year-old Addie Ramírez has a tough decision
to make. Is she ready to be adopted by the stepfather
who loves her and is the only father figure she has
ever known? Or should she search out her estranged
biological father who, she discovers, is in the middle
of a comeback as a Mexican luchador? Through this
journey of discovery, Addie learns that family means
more than just showing up. It’s about being real and
working through challenges together.

YOUNG ADULT
“An Appetite for Miracles”
by Laekan Zea Kemp
Two teens come together while trying to reconnect
to their individual families. Sixteen-year-old Danna
Mendoza is determined to bring back her grand-
father’s memories through food. Meanwhile, Raúl
Santos doesn’t know how to feel now that his mother
has been released from prison. This moving young
adult novel, written in verse, explores the hope of
reconnection and the fear of loss.

“¡AY, MIJA!: My Bilingual Summer in Mexico”
written and illustrated by Christine Suggs
In this young adult graphic novel memoir, Christine
Suggs recalls a trip they took as a teen to Mexico to visit
their grandparents. While attempting to adapt to lan-
guage and cultural barriers, Christine comes to see the
generational differences in their family and begins to
explore their mixed world. This bilingual graphic novel
will appeal to teens who are also struggling to embrace
family heritage while being true to themselves.

“Firekeeper’s Daughter”
by Angeline Boulley
When family tragedy strikes, Daunis defers going
away to college to stay home and care for her
mother. After witnessing a murder, Daunis acciden-
tally becomes embroiled in the investigation of a
series of drug-related deaths that seem to lead back
to the nearby Ojibwe reservation. This YA thriller
follows one Native girl who must decide between
those she loves or her tribal community. P
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