Summer Reading: Novels
Disclaimer: The Nora Project no longer uses the term "#OwnVoices" to describe books where the author's lived experience is reflected in their work through its characters, events, themes, and more. To learn more about this decision and background, please reference the statement released by We Need Diverse Books here.
It’s hard to believe that summer is already ending and a new school year is upon us. We believe that as children transition back to school, reading should remain a priority. Stories have the ability to open new worlds to readers of all ages, allowing them to explore new topics and broaden their horizons. If you haven’t had a chance to browse our summer reading challenge list - there’s no time like the present! Recently, we shared a more in-depth look at some of our favorite picture books. Today, we will take a look at three of our favorite novels, suitable for upper elementary, middle school age and up.
Rectangle book cover for ‘Out of My Mind’ of a fish bowl with clear water sitting on a table with an orange goldfish jumping out of the bowl.
In the novel Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, readers enter the world of a young girl named Melody. Melody is a fifth grader navigating the world of school and peer relationships. She has cerebral palsy, and has complex communication needs as well as physical disabilities. Concepts including inclusion, the effects of making assumptions, and emotions are covered within this realistic fictional narrative. This is an amazing journey seen through the eyes of a young child with disabilities, written by a mom of a child with similar disabilities. Exciting news - Draper has written a sequel entitled Out of My Heart, set to be released November 9, 2021. We can’t wait to re-enter Melody’s world, this time at summer camp!
Rectangle book cover for ‘Thunder Dog’ that has a yellow lab dog standing while wearing a guide harness and a man standing behind the dog.
Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson recounts the true story of Michael Hingson, a blind man who is at work in the World Trade Center during the attack on 9/11, and who survives with the help of his guide dog, Roselle. Michael’s narrative moves between the actions he and others took on 9/11 and his life growing up with blindness. The reader is brought into his world in a unique way, allowing the reader to imagine being in the moment as Michael retells his story. The text challenges many false presumptions including perceptions of lack of competence and the effects of ableism on Michael and, by extension, on others with disabilities. One interesting and humorous tale concerns how his parents react to neighbors complaining about their son riding his bike - yes indeed, Michael learned to ride a bike as a young child. Does that surprise you - a blind child riding a bike? Jump into this novel and let yourself be challenged as you confront your own ableist ideas!
Rectangle book cover for ‘The Silence Between Us’ with two multi colored painted hands interlocking pointer fingers.
Enter the world of deafness, and explore it through the life experiences of a young teen in The Silence Between Us by Alison Gervais. This #OwnVoices story follows the realistic fictional story of Maya, a high school senior entering a local high school, having previously been at a school for the deaf. Follow her as she navigates the challenges of school in a hearing world, building confidence as she makes friends and develops her first romance. The author touches on the communication choices of ASL and oral/aural and how Maya moves between them within a hearing setting. This YA novel may challenge your inaccurate perceptions of the capabilities of deaf individuals, and may lead to some interesting discussions that could dismantle ableist beliefs and promote more inclusive mindsets.
For more book ideas check out The Nora Project’s Kindness Library. We are upgrading and expanding this resource, so check back often. If you have read a book that should be added to our library, please send that info to Janie at janie@thenoraproject.ngo. Happy Reading!!