The Library has an AMAZING collection of books featuring stories and information written by and about people from varied backgrounds, races, ethnicities, life experiences, and viewpoints. We love to share selections that demonstrate the range of our collection all year and we encourage you to explore these books with us!
How would you describe yourself? Ironically, more often than not, our focus turns outward upon hearing that question. The mind starts to evaluate what's "suitable" to share and which information will be better received instead of weighing what's most exciting to us and probing our own comfort levels. The reads and resources below are full of stories of teens learning to embrace and champion their uniqueness. So, as we reflect on the history of Pride Month this June, let's make an effort to remember that, across this entire planet, there is only one of each of us. Just one! And that's something special to celebrate!
READ: Cemetery Boys by Avi Roque
At 16, Yadriel is beyond ready to join the men in his family as a brujo, but his father won't acknowledge him as his son because he's trans. With his best friend's help, Yadriel completes his own initiation on the same night tragedy befalls his cousin. While attempting to find his cousin's lost spirit, Yadriel accidently summons a young man named Julian, who also died under mysterious circumstances. Together, the teens try to figure out whodunit before the Día de Muertos festivities send spirits to their final rest.
Questions to think about while you read:
- What is one thing you can do to make yourself proud today?
- Who are the people that improve your life? How do they show their support?
- How can you contribute to others feeling confident and capable?
LISTEN: A Conversation with Adib Khorram
Listen in as the YA author of the Seafire trilogy, Natalie C. Parker, sits down with Adib Khorram to discuss everything from his brainstorming process for his sequel, Darius the Great Deserves Better, to his own experiences as a teen grappling with the question of what one wants and how to define oneself.
Questions to think about while you listen:
- What do you like about yourself?
- What are you proud of in your life?
- What is something you wish others better understood about you?
EXPLORE: Stickering
Show off what it is you love about yourself and your interests with DIY stickers! Draw a design on label sticker paper with paint pens or markers and cover it with self-adhesive vinyl laminate. Then just cut around the border and peel off the backing to place it on a notebook, water bottle or phone case!
JOIN: Attend a program in person!
View all teen programs and events offered this month.
Registration is required; if space allows, walk-ins will be admitted. Use the link in the program information to register.
