Even within the subheading of Young Adult, an even narrower topic emerged: African American, female protagonists.
When I was a wee librarian-ette, the only books with girls as storytellers were about falling in love, overcoming abuse, or involved dresses from the Renaissance. Even fewer of these books had multicultural, female protagonists... in fact, I am having difficulty thinking of a great young adult book with such a main character.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry is a noted exception. As is The House on Mango Street, The Devil's Arithmetic and Island of the Blue Dolphins.
That is why this week's Spotlight on New Books makes me so happy! Three new books with three exciting, female, African American, teenage heroines for you to read and enjoy.
The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi Durrow
After a tragedy that claims the life of both of her parents, Rachel is forced to face issues of race and class. This book is not about the tragedy of her early life or, really, the injustice of racial identity, but about how one girl reacted to these experiences.
Flygirl by Sherri Smith
All Ida ever wanted to do was fly, just like her daddy. When WWII begins she sees her chance with the WASPs; however, she has to hide her African American heritage to do realize this dream. If you are forced to suppress your family and who you are, can you ever completely realize your dreams?
Mare's War by Tanita Davis
This story follows two present-day sisters on a road trip with their eccentric grandmother. Just as the road before them, their grandmother's story unfurls allowing them to learn about her past and theirs.
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