MIDDLE GRADE NOnfiction

The topics of gun control and gun laws are divisive ones for Americans. This nonfiction social studies title for young adults examines the history of mass shooting tragedies in the U. S., from restaurants and churches to schools such as Columbine and Sandy Hook. It explores theories about mass murder motives and possible solutions for prevention, including better mental health services and assault weapon bans. Includes sidebars, a glossary, a timeline, and profiles of advocate Sue Klebold and criminology researchers Drs. Jillian Peterson and James Densley.

Interest level: Ages 12 - 14

Grades: 7th - 9th

Buy on Bookshop here.

Buy on Barnes & Noble here.

(paperback; hardcover also available)

The U.S. is such a rich country, yet more than 40 million Americans lack economic stability and constant access to food, health care, and other resources. This nonfiction social studies title for young adults examines the history and effects of poverty in the nation, how it's measured, and how people of color have been especially affected. It explores Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal policies, Lyndon Johnson's War on Poverty, and safety net assistance programs such as Social Security, unemployment insurance, SNAP, Medicare and Medicaid, CHIP, 

and the Affordable Care Act. 

Interest level: Ages 12 - 14

Grades: 7th - 9th

Buy on Bookshop here.

Buy on Barnes & Noble here.

(paperback; hardcover also available)