List
True Stories: Narrative Nonfiction for Teens
Try these incredible true stories for teens, recommended by our teen interns, Barira Barkat and Jonathan Nguyen.
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From a Whisper to a Rallying Cry: The Killing of Vincent Chin and the Trial That Galvanized the Asian American Movement
2021 by Yoo, PaulaGet this itemWith parallels to the anti-AAPI violence that occurred early in the COVID-19 pandemic, this riveting deep dive into the killing and trials of Vincent Chin explores the events and legacy that fueled the Asian American civil rights movement.
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Black Birds in the Sky: The Story and Legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre
2021 by Colbert, BrandyGet this itemLearn about the true story behind the Tulsa Race Massacre, a violent part of U.S. history that is often covered up. This book is powerful and passionate, using real images and compelling storytelling to reveal the past.
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Murder among Friends: How Leopold and Loeb Tried to Commit the Perfect Crime
2022 by Fleming, CandaceGet this itemThis gripping thriller explores the events that led two teenagers to murder a child, engaging the reader with its true-crime intensity and riveting narrative.
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The Boy Who Followed His Father into Auschwitz: A True Story Retold for Young Readers
2023 by Dronfield, JeremyGet this itemSet in Vienna during World War II, this true story follows a father and son’s unbreakable bond during the Holocaust with vivid descriptions and detailed storytelling.
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All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto
2020 by Johnson, George M.Get this itemWritten with heart and honesty, Johnson’s memoir follows his experiences growing up as a Black and queer teenager. It revolves around themes of family and identity.
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Americanized: Rebel without a Green Card
2018 by Saedi, SaraGet this itemThis entertaining memoir recounts the author’s enthralling and often humorous experience of coming-of-age while fearing deportation.
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Notes from a Young Black Chef: A Memoir
2019 by Onwuachi, KwameGet this itemKwame Onwuachi, who many may recognize from Top Chef, recalls the highs and lows of his cooking career and how his Afro-Caribbean heritage inspired his cuisine.
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We Say #never Again: Reporting by the Parkland Student Journalists
2018Get this itemOrganized as a collection of essays by Parkland students about the Parkland High School shooting, this gripping book illuminates social justice issues and the importance of journalism in activism.
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The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America's Shining Women
2017 by Moore, KateGet this itemExplore the heartbreaking history of the Radium Girls, a group of young women who suffered from the effects of working with glow-in-the-dark radium paint. Adapted from The New York Times bestselling adult book, this version is a gripping and inspiring book for young readers.
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Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption
2014 by Stevenson, BryanGet this itemThis highly acclaimed book explores the U.S. criminal justice system with Stevenson’s efforts and challenges as a lawyer. These true and eye-opening experiences provide a powerful commentary on discrimination within our criminal justice system.
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A Mighty Long Way: My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School
2023 by LaNier, Carlotta WallsGet this itemFollow the personal account of one of the Little Rock Nine, a group of nine Black students who made history in the nation’s most famous high school integration. Its incredible historical value and eye-opening testimonies make it an essential read.
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