These novels-in-verse speak truth into the world. Based on a true story, A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez by Mária Dolores Águila is a vivid and uplifting middle-grade novel about one child’s courage to stand up for what is right. Told through searing free-verse, journal entries, and interspersed fill-in-the-blank poetry prompts, Truth Is by Hannah V. Sawyerr reminds readers there is always hope when a teen fights for her right to determine what happens to her body, with the support of her slam poetry team. Based on Caribbean folklore, Ibi Zoboi’s fantasy debut (S)Kin follows two girls who discover that the very thing keeping their power locked beneath the surface may be more explosive to the relationships around them than any inherited magic. Moderated by Dr. Precious Symonette, Ed.D.
Buy A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez – Águila
Buy Truth Is – Sawyerr
Buy (S)Kin – Zoboi
MARÍA DOLORES ÁGUILA is a Chicana poet and author from San Diego. Deeply inspired by Chicano history and art, she seeks to write empowering and inclusive stories about everything she learns. She also loves drinking coffee, browsing the bookshelves at her local library, and spending time with her family. She is the author of the critically acclaimed picture book Barrio Rising, illustrated by Magdalena Mora.
