By Hannah Simmons, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
Well, friends, summer is almost over. Get ready to put away the flip-flops and beach towels, and break out the bookbags and pencil cases because, that’s right, it’s back-to-school time!
Going back to school, or even starting school for the first time, can be a big challenge. It’s easy to get stuck inside your head with nervous questions. Will I make friends? Will my teachers be nice? Will I do well in my classes?
Your Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has a few confidence-boosting reads to share with your back-to-schoolers as they get ready to take on this next big chapter in their lives. The books below will help them celebrate their ability to be their FABULOUS selves, and perhaps inspire others to do the same.
Pre-K
I Will Be Fierce by Bea Birdsong
Follow one little girl’s journey through her day as she dons her favorite rainbow shirt and embarks on a magical fairy tale quest that will test her ability to be brave, strong, and FIERCE.
Elementary
Dear Girl and Dear Boy Jason Rosenthal
These books are beautiful letters that ask children to love and accept themselves, just the way they are. It also encourages them to be brave, curious, adaptable, and willing to speak up for themselves and others.
Middle Grade
Awkward and Brave by Svetlana Chmakova
What does it mean to be “popular?” A “hero?” And how far will you go to achieve these titles? These graphic novels ask some important questions about bullying, acceptance, and how we label ourselves and the people around us. But also, how we think and feel about ourselves.
High School
I Was Born For This by Alice Oseman
Angel and Jimmy have one thing in common – the boyband they both ADORE called “The Ark.” For Angel, being a fangirl has given her friends, aspiration, and a sense of belonging. For Jimmy, being IN the band is a dream come true. But when they must focus on the world outside of the Ark, it’s a bit more complicated, and facing reality is tough. This coming of age read explores self-discovery in a surprising and inspirational way.
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