This season’s selections emphasize empathy, activism, and awareness of global challenges. From social justice movements to environmental conservation, the focus is on equipping young readers with the knowledge to understand pressing issues and the confidence to imagine change.

Elementary

Anthony, William. Building with Nature. ISBN 9798893593334.
––––. Growing with Nature. ISBN 9798893593341.
––––. Living with Nature. ISBN 9798893593358.
––––. Powered by Nature. ISBN 9798893593365.
ea vol: 24p. (The World We Want). North Star/Maple Bay. Aug. 2025. Tr $29.93.
K-Gr 3–This series introduces innovative ways of living that can help improve the world. Each section begins by describing a harmful daily practice and then presents a sustainable alternative to it. Examples include using reclaimed wood instead of newly cut lumber and choosing more plant-based meals to conserve land. Photographs illustrate real-world examples of eco-friendly practices in action, and each section is accompanied by an activity to reinforce the learning. The clear, approachable writing helps readers grasp both the need for change and the benefits it brings, making complex environmental issues accessible. Each book concludes with a glossary and index for quick reference. VERDICT Recommended for school and public libraries

Barnham, Kay. Women’s Rights and Suffrage. ISBN 9781499453836.
Chambers, Catherine. Slavery. ISBN 9781499453805.
Ganeri, Anita. Racial Equality. ISBN 9781499453744.
Spilsbury, Louise. Human Rights. ISBN 9781499453683.
––––. LGBTQ+ Rights. ISBN 9781499453713.
––––. Refugees and Homelands. ISBN 9781499453775.
ea vol: 32p. (Civil Rights Stories). Rosen/PowerKids. Aug. 2025. Tr $27.93.
Gr 3-5–This compelling series revisits pivotal civil and human rights struggles across history and around the world. One volume offers an overview of human rights from ancient times through modern-day movements, while others focus on specific topics, including racism, LGBTQIA+ rights, refugees, slavery, and women’s rights. Each book goes beyond familiar events to highlight lesser-known stories, such as LGBTQIA+ advancements in sports and the military, global antiracism movements, and refugee crises past and present. While the content tackles serious issues, the tone is not all doom and gloom: notable figures and landmark achievements are highlighted throughout, showing the progress that has been made alongside the challenges that remain. Back matter includes a timeline, a book list, a glossary, and an index. VERDICT Clear writing, engaging illustrations, and a broad historical perspective make this a great pick for libraries

Bergin, Raymond. Decreasing Space Junk. ISBN 9798895770542.
––––. Helping the Ocean. ISBN 9798895770535.
––––. Minimizing Waste. ISBN 9798895770528.
––––. Reducing Air Pollution. ISBN 9798895770498.
––––. Restoring Habitats. ISBN 9798895770511.
––––. Using Green Energy. ISBN 9798895770504.
ea vol: 32p. (Save Our Earth! Climate Action Explained). Bearport. Aug. 2025. Tr $32.95.
Gr 3-5–Young readers are given clear explanations of current solutions to climate change and other human-caused natural disasters. Each volume begins by outlining how the problem originated. For example, how the atmosphere traps pollution from fossil fuels, how rockets create space junk, and how habitats are harmed by human activity. The text then describes efforts to counteract these effects, including reforestation projects, pollution capture initiatives, and space junk recycling. Experimental green energy companies are also highlighted. Illustrations clarify concepts such as how solar energy works and the role the atmosphere plays in climate change, while textboxes provide fascinating statistics. Each book concludes with a list of ways for readers to contribute to solutions. Back matter includes a glossary, suggested reading, and an index. VERDICT An inspiring series that emphasizes the global nature of the fight against climate change.

Clay, Kathryn. African Elephants at Risk: Saving These Majestic Mammals. ISBN 9798875221712.
––––. Hammerhead Sharks at Risk: Saving These Unusual Predators. ISBN 9798875221798.
––––. Macaws at Risk: Saving These Colorful Birds. ISBN 9798875221873.
––––. Mountain Gorillas at Risk: Saving These Great Apes. ISBN 9798875221958.
––––. Pangolins at Risk: Saving These Armored Animals. ISBN 9798875222030.
––––. Sumatran Tigers at Risk: Saving These Fierce Big Cats. ISBN 9798875222115.
ea vol: 32p. (Animals at Risk). Capstone. Aug. 2025. Tr $31.32.
Gr 3-5–This informative series offers a comprehensive look at endangered animals around the world. Each book begins with an overview of the animal’s daily life, including its diet, habitat, and survival strategies, as well as the factors contributing to its endangered status. Subsequent chapters explore physical characteristics, life cycle, and environmental needs, followed by an in-depth examination of the threats posed by human activity and climate change. The final chapter highlights conservation efforts and the organizations working to protect each species. Trivia questions and hands-on activities will keep readers engaged and reinforce key concepts. Back matter includes a glossary, an index, and a list of additional resources for further exploration. VERDICT A solid choice for budding conservationists.

Hall, Alex. We Are Different. ISBN 9798895770269.
––––. We Get Along. ISBN 9798895770276.
––––. We Help One Another. ISBN 9798895770283.
––––. We Take Care of Our World. ISBN 9798895770290.
ea vol: 24p. (We Are Connected). Bearport/Fusion. Aug. 2025. Tr $30.95.
Gr 1-3–This SEL series focuses on celebrating community and developing kindness. The books highlight the many ways people differ, from religion and ability to skin color and language, while encouraging children to reflect on their own uniqueness. Readers learn practical ways to get along with others and see what positive interactions can look like in everyday life. Community helpers are spotlighted, along with the many ways children themselves can contribute to building strong, supportive communities. Large images featuring diverse children accompany the text. Each book concludes with an index and a glossary. VERDICT A thoughtful and inclusive series that encourages empathy, respect, and active participation in community life. Recommended for school and classroom libraries.

Lusted, Marcia Amidon. Droughts and the Environment. ISBN 9798875216947.
––––. Tornadoes and the Environment. ISBN 9798875217029.
ea vol: 32p. (Disasters and the Environment). Capstone. Aug. 2025. Tr $31.32.
Gr 3-5–This informative series introduces readers to natural disasters and their wide-ranging effects on people, animals, and the environment. Each volume explores a specific disaster, breaking it down into causes, environmental impact, human and animal consequences, and post-disaster recovery efforts. In Droughts and the Environment, readers learn what a drought is, how long it can last, and the toll it takes on habitats and communities. In Tornadoes and the Environment, topics include how tornadoes form, their levels of destruction, how they are measured, and how scientists track their patterns. Fact boxes highlight key concepts, while focused case studies, such as the Dust Bowl and the 1953 Worcester tornado, offer historical context. Stark, dramatic photos underscore the power and threat of these natural events. The back matter includes a glossary, an index, and resource lists. VERDICT A strong choice for building awareness of environmental science and disaster preparedness.

Upper Elementary to Middle School

Boteju, Tanya. Allyship as Action. ISBN 9781459840478.
Tam Wu, Karen. What a Waste. ISBN 9781459840447.
ea vol: illus. by Bithi Sutradhar. 48p. (Orca Take Action). Orca. Aug. 2025. Tr $19.95.
Gr 4-6–This beautifully illustrated series introduces young readers to the foundations of social justice and environmental responsibility, offering concrete examples of how they can make a difference. With a clear and accessible structure, the books explain concepts such as privilege and guide readers in identifying their own, encouraging reflection and empathy. Numbered lists and bullet points keep the text approachable, while quotes from kids and experts in textboxes provide multiple perspectives. The books present solutions to waste and climate change while also addressing their impracticalities, offering a balanced perspective. By showing both the possibilities and the challenges, the series underscores that lasting change cannot come from others alone; we must each be part of the solution. Back matter includes a glossary, an index, and additional resources. VERDICT A valuable addition to classrooms and libraries seeking to foster empathy, awareness, and action among young readers.

Doeden, Matt. Cybersecurity. ISBN 9798765669402.
––––. Disinformation. ISBN 9798765669419.
Hubbard, Ben. NASA’s Artemis Missions. ISBN 9798765669389.
McGraw, Sally. Book Bans. ISBN 9798765669396.
ea vol: 48p. (Gateway Headlines). Lerner. Aug. 2025. Tr $33.32.
Gr 5-8–This series demystifies current news headlines, helping readers navigate today’s issues with context and clarity. Each book opens with a narrative account to ground the topic, then explores the current discussion, and sometimes controversies, surrounding it. Historical background is woven throughout, covering events such as famous book burnings, the space race, and World War II propaganda. Textboxes highlight related issues, including how to spot fake news and examples of banned books, while chapters explain complex concepts like exceptions to the First Amendment or the influence of social media on disinformation. Each volume concludes with a timeline of important dates, a select bibliography, an index, and additional resources. VERDICT An excellent introduction to current events.

Hitchens-Brookins, Tristan. Grant West: Learning through Music. ISBN 9781959223696.
Loewen, Nancy. Charlotte Ray: Trailblazing Lawyer. ISBN 9781959223641.
––––. Lusia Harris: Basketball Star. ISBN 9781959223658.
ea vol: illus. by Chasity Hampton. 32p. (Difference Makers). Planting People Growing Justice. Aug. 2025. pap. $10.99.
Gr 4-6–Accomplished trailblazers receive long-overdue recognition in this inspiring and informative series. Each book profiles everyday Americans who broke barriers of race or gender to become the first in their field. Featured individuals include Charlotte Ray, the first Black woman to graduate from law school and open a legal practice; Grant West, a community activist and musician who founded the first Black-owned music academy; and Lusia Harris, an Olympic medalist and the first woman officially drafted by the NBA. Each biography highlights the subject’s formative years, the historical context surrounding their achievements, and the impact they made on future generations. The series demonstrates that even modest accomplishments can pave the way for significant societal progress. Informational text boxes explore related topics such as HBCUs, the Underground Railroad, and learning styles. The books include a glossary, curated lists of books and websites, and source notes. VERDICT A powerful series that celebrates resilience, representation, and lasting change.

Upper Middle School to High School

Bruegl, Heather. Native to This Land. ISBN 9798765644126.
Burling, Alexis. Used or Abused? ISBN 9798765644133.
Olson, Elsie. Between Extremes. ISBN 9798765644157.
ea vol: 64p. (Spotlight on Social Justice). Lerner/Twenty-First Century. Aug. 2025. Tr $35.99.
Gr 7-10–A thought-provoking survey of current social justice issues, this series provides students with background information on civil rights issues. It covers topics such as the origins of ancient and modern democracy, as well as historical and contemporary efforts to limit it. The volume on animal abuse addresses the mistreatment of animals and their use in important scientific breakthroughs. It examines efforts to limit animal testing through cruelty-free products and legislation, leaving readers with solid foundational knowledge of the issue. Reflection questions throughout prompt students to consider their own thoughts on the issues, and each book concludes with suggestions for ways to get involved. Back matter includes a glossary, further reading lists, a bibliography, and an index. VERDICT Recommended for collections seeking engaging resources to support classroom discussion and student research on social justice topics.

“Animals at Risk” (Capstone) and “Disasters and the Environment” (Capstone) deliver engaging science content with a conservation message. Middle-grade readers will find inspiration in “Difference Makers” (Planting People Growing Justice) and “Civil Rights Stories” (Rosen/PowerKids), both of which emphasize the power of ordinary individuals to create extraordinary change. “Orca Take Action” (Orca) and “Save Our Earth! Climate Action Explained” (Bearport) balance honesty with optimism. For older students, “Gateway Headlines” (Lerner) and “Spotlight on Social Justice” (Lerner) stand out as essential resources.

FALL 2025 SERIES MADE SIMPLE REVIEWS