✊🏽 Books That Build Brave Voices: 10 New Social Justice Picture Books and Reads for Older Kids (2024+)
Books are some of the most powerful tools we have to raise conscious, compassionate children. The latest releases in 2024 continue to expand what’s possible in children’s publishing amplifying voices, honoring histories, and calling young readers to care deeply and act boldly. Books help young readers make sense of the world and find their voice within it. These new and upcoming titles celebrate protest, identity, culture, and courage. From preschoolers to middle schoolers, these are the kinds of stories that raise kids who care. Here are 10 new and upcoming picture books and middle grade reads that center social justice, identity, and collective care:
📖 "Until Someone Listens" (2022)
by Estela Juarez
Age: 4-8
Based on the true story of Estela Juarez, a young Latina activist who fought to stop her mother’s deportation. Poignant and empowering, perfect for immigration-themed conversations.
📖 "Andy Johnson and the March for Justice"
by Esau McCaulley
Age: 4-8
Inspired by civil rights marches, this story shows young Andy joining a protest with his family, connecting faith and justice
📖 “Momma’s Going To March"
by Jennifer Maruno
Age: 3-6
A child’s joyful journey preparing for a peaceful march with their mother—includes historical context and empowering representation
📖 "The Protest"
by Samantha Thornhill
Age: 4-8
Poetic and uplifting, this book shows how even the smallest voices can be part of something bigger.
📖 "Barrio Rising"
by Maria Delores Aguila
Age: 4-8
A powerful true story about a 1970s Chicano community protest that created a cultural landmark in San Diego.
📖 "Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All"
by Chanel Miller
Age: 7-12
In this moving middle grade debut, Magnolia discovers family stories, immigrant dreams, and small acts of kindness while running a lost-and-found booth in New York City. A beautiful tale of quiet activism and deep belonging.
📖 "The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze"
by Derrick Barnes
Age: 9-12
Henson Blayze is a 13-year-old football star whose small Mississippi town treats him like a hero until he takes a stand against racial injustice. When he walks off the field in protest, the town turns on him, forcing Henson to choose between fame and doing what’s right. A powerful coming-of-age story about identity, courage, and the cost of being truly seen.
📖 "Fighting With Love: The Legacy of John Lewis"
by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Age: 4-8
This stirring portrait of civil rights leader John Lewis highlights his path from a preaching boy in Alabama to a congressional icon — always guided by peaceful protest and powerful love.
📖 "You Can Be An Activist: How to Use Your Strengths and Passions to Make a Difference"
by Charlene Rocha
Age: 9-14
A lively, graphic-packed guide offering practical steps for kids to turn their passions into action—identifying strengths, launching campaigns, and making change in their world.
📖 "A Voice of Hope: The Myrlie Evers-Williams Story"
by Nadia Saloman
Age: 9-12
A picture-book biography of civil rights activist Myrlie Evers-Williams, tracing her journey from childhood dreams to leading the charge for justice, carrying on her husband's legacy with strength and resilience.
Books like these don’t just inform, they transform. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or community organizer, stories are your secret weapon in raising conscious kids. Share these books, talk about the big ideas, and remind young readers: your voice matters.
With stories and solidarity,
Kerri