Building community through diverse young adult voices

Published Feb. 08, 2022
Updated Feb. 23, 2022

For the month of February, you’re invited to explore a new book display at Fletcher Library on the West campus. “Building Community through Diverse Young Adult Voices” features titles authored by African American, Asian American, Indigenous, Latinx and other historically marginalized voices. The new display resulted from a partnership between the ASU Library, and New College faculty. It was created to support and reinforce two master’s level humanities programs researching ethnic studies and language diversity in Arizona.

“These award-winning authors have been well received by critics and readers alike, and their work adds to the ever-growing reflection of American diversity in young adult literature. These books can inspire younger students, promote reflection and thought, and are great additions for educators looking for curriculum development, or for book suggestions for their students,” said Joe Buenker, Humanities Librarian at ASU Library.

The display includes 75 titles; including winners of the American Indian Youth Literature Award, the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, the Pura Belpré Medal, the Coretta Scott King Book Awards, the Rainbow Book List, and the Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award.

Book display

 

Titles include: “Before the Ever After” by Jacqueline Woodson, “Enchanted Air” by Margarita Engle, “Hearts Unbroken” by Cynthia Leitich Smith, “I Can Make This Promise” by Christine Day, and “The Land of Forgotten Girls” by Erin Entrada Kelly, and “Totally Joe” by James Howe.

Mimmo Bonanni, Social Sciences Librarian shared, “The books’ themes are highly contemporary and can reinforce what students are learning in an ASU classroom. We’re excited to share and highlight these titles that are reflective of students’ interests and the communities surrounding ASU campuses.”

To learn more about the display, please contact Mimmo Bonanni, Social Sciences Librarian.

Plan your visit to Fletcher Library on the West campus.