George by Alex Gino

 A few weeks ago I put out a call on Twitter for books that would help support LGBTQ+ students.  I wanted to expand my library so that everyone could find a book that they could see themselves in if that is what they were looking for.  Alex Gino was recommended to me as an author that might work for middle grade students, he is a new author to me, and I'm really glad I found him.  

George is the story of a 10 year old boy who identifies as a girl, however, she hasn't told anyone yet.  When the school decides to put on the play Charlotte's Web, the only part George wants to play is Charlotte, but George isn't sure what the rest of the school or her classmates will accept that.  George's best friend Kelly is a great support, but George is afraid to tell her as well.  

In this story, George has to worry about the reaction of his mother and brother, his classmates- especially the two class bullies and his friend.  I really liked how Alex Gino dealt with the issue of someone who is transgender and the complex emotions and reactions that come from different people.  Even though the main characters are in grade 4, I think this book would be of interest to students in older grades.  I'm looking forward to showcasing this book in some way.  

The Barren Grounds by David A. Robertson

 On Thursday, Pernille Ripp announced the next book for her Global Read Aloud for middle school students.  I had just said that my new focus was going to be on reading books by and about Indigenous authors and then this book came up on my feed.  I ordered it right away and it was at my house the next day.   

I could not put this book down!  The Barren Grounds is the story of two Indigenous youth who are living in foster care in Winnipeg.  Morgan is in grade 8 and she has been living in an endless series of foster home, and is not only unhappy herself, but ends up making everyone around her unhappy as well.  Eli is in grade 7 and has just entered the foster care system.  He is trying to adjust to his new reality, while missing his home.  

Morgan and Eli find a secret room in the attic of their home and are surprised to discover that it leads to a portal that takes them into a different reality.   This new land is a place where it is always winter, and when the pair meet up with Ochek, who is the only hunter in his village desperate to find a way to keep his people alive they join him in his fight for survival.  Ochek recognizes that the children are needed to end the endless winter and as he teaches them the traditional ways of living off the land, they set out on a dangerous mission to bring food and warmth back to the community.  

I understand why this book was selected for the Global Read Aloud, I am so amazed that it is a Canadian author and set in Winnipeg.  What a wonderful connection for our students.  I cannot wait to introduce this to teachers and students!