“Breaking our silence is powerful. Whether it comes as a whisper or a squeak at first, allow that sense of spaciousness, of opening; allow yourself to trust the bottomlessness, and lean into the dark roar which will light up every cell.” – Lucy H. Pearce
We all have a voice that speaks our truth. Sometimes that voice is buried down deep and barely squeaks as life goes on around us. For many of us, our voice becomes bolder as we grow in confidence and experience.
The stories in this collection are full of wonderful characters whose trials and successes cause their voices to emerge. We cheer as we watch them become fully themselves. Best of all, we gain empathy and understanding for the real people in our lives who are finding their voices, too. Enjoy!
Below you’ll find books, conversation launchers and activities that are appropriate for 6th, 7th and 8th Graders around the concept of “Find Your Voice”.
GREAT BOOKS & CONVOS
Mostly the Honest Truth
By Jody J. Little
Why We LOVE This Book
Jane finds herself in Three Boulders after Pop is sent back to rehab. Besides missing Pop immensely, Jane is unsure of Three Boulders. She opts to twist the truth and finds it difficult to find her voice. Jane will do anything, in order to make sure she is reunited with Pop. While she is waiting for his return, she realizes home can be found in unexpected places.
Conversation Launchers
The Samosa Rebellion
By Shanthi Sekaran
Why We LOVE This Book
Muki has always loved his life on the island of Mariposa, but begins to realize it is not as great as he originally thought. The president divides the people of Mariposa into Butterflies, families who have lived in Mariposa for three generations, and Moths, more recent immigrants. Muki’s family members are Moths and are treated unfairly. Muki, his family, and other Moths find their voices by having a secret rebellion.
Conversation Launchers
We’re Better Than This: My Fight for the Future of Our Democracy by Elijah Cummings – Young Readers’ Edition
By Elijah Cummings
Why We LOVE This Book
Elijah Cummings witnessed injustice firsthand when he grew up in Baltimore. The injustice spread quickly, even though fairness and equality were promised. Since Elijah had a solid support system and was determined, he was able to find his voice and fight against poverty and racism. His voice and actions help others overcome various obstacles and pursue freedom and equality for all.
Conversation Launchers
Keep the Conversation Going!
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
MORE GREAT READS
Same Sun Here
Silas House & Neela Vaswani
Fish In A Tree
Lynda Lullaly Hunt
Amina’s Voice
Hena Khan
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Resources for OTHER AGE GROUPS
Below you’ll find books and activities that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “Find Your Voice.”
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
BIRTH – AGE 3
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founder
