"This mission is what’s been passed down to me -- to write stories that have been historically absent...to create mirrors for the people who so rarely see themselves inside contemporary fiction, and windows for those who think we are no more than the stereotypes they’re so afraid of." ~ Jacqueline Woodson, American author
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New and Recently Released!
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| Writer to Writer: From Think to Ink by Gail Carson LevineNonfiction. "Have fun, and save what you write" is the most commonly repeated suggestion in this down-to-earth writing guide from bestselling fantasy author Gail Carson Levine. Inspired by the questions she receives at her advice blog, Levine explores solutions to potential writing problems such as plot creation, "mid-story crisis," wrestling with grammar, and finding time to write. If you're an active young author who's eager to improve, you'll find plenty of useful advice in this friendly, encouraging volume; if you're a beginning writer, you may prefer Levine's earlier book, Writing Magic. For further answers to frequently asked writing questions, check out Spilling Ink by Ellen Potter and Anne Mazer.
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Focus on: African American Authors
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| Playground by 50 CentFiction. Thirteen-year-old Burton -- better known as "Butterball" -- has been miserable since his parents split and he had to move to Long Island with his mom. He's overweight, has almost no friends, and has just landed in detention for bashing in a former friend's face with a sock full of batteries. Now he's stuck talking to a clueless white lady about his problems...but some of the popular kids are finally giving him a little respect. Anyone who likes stories that ring true and don't shy away from the rough parts of life should give this first novel from rapper 50 Cent a try. |
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| Pinned by Sharon G. FlakeFiction. Ninth graders Autumn and Adonis almost couldn't be more different -- Autumn is great at wrestling, cooking, and being a friend, but she's not so great at academics; Adonis, who manages the wrestling team, has a physical disability (and isn't all that great at getting along with people) but is the smartest kid in school. This uplifting and affecting novel is narrated from both Autumn's and Adonis' points of view and has many memorable characters; it's sure to thrill anyone who likes reading about secrets, romance, or spirited competition. |
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| Akata Witch by Nnedi OkoraforUrban Fantasy. Born to Nigerian parents in New York City and now living in Nigeria, 12-year-old Sunny Nwazue doesn't fit in either world. The kids at school pick on her for being an outsider and, because Sunny is an albino, they call her things like "pale-faced akata witch" ("akata" is "a very, very rude word" in Igbo). But when she turns 13, Sunny is drawn into the hidden magical realm of the Leopard People -- and learns that she may have a destined role in saving the world. With its fascinating world-building and uncomplicated yet vivid writing, Akata Witch will please fantasy fans looking for something original. |
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Contact your librarian for more great books!
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