App Kid by Michael Sayman
At 13, after the collapse of his family’s restaurant business during the Great Recession, Michael Sayman taught himself how to code and built an app that made him $10,000 per month. He became Facebook’s youngest employee ever, spearheaded the design of FB Stories, and moved on to Google.
Why It’s Great for Kids
Definitely for older readers, App Kid is nonetheless a powerful, honest and inspiring story, a kind of Horatio Alger for our modern tech world. Sayman’s story illuminates a number of touchpoints kids can identify with.
The son of a Jewish father from Bolivia and a Roman Catholic mother from Peru, his experience speaks directly to the challenges immigrants face in America. Many kids today dream of striking it rich designing apps and software, and Sayman’s example reveals the hard work that lies behind such successes and points to how it is still possible to be self-taught in the world of modern coding.
The further challenges he faced as a gay kid growing up in a community where gay was still a derogatory word will also speak to many kids who feel ostracized and alone.
Though not written specifically for kids, few memoirs combine a kind of Disney-esque tale with firsthand experience at the forefront of modern technology.
Reviews
“Sayman doesn’t seem to hold back – he is honest about the weaknesses and strengths of both himself and others; and is intentional about giving full context to his accomplishments, so they don’t seem to occur in a vacuum.”
— Katie
“Excellent memoir and interesting details about Facebook and Google in the first decade of this century.”
— Sally
“From the opening story in APP KID, I could tell Michael Sayman had written an interesting book…The storytelling in APP KID is excellent and worthwhile listening.”
— W. Terry Whalin
“It is a delight to listen to Sayman tell his story. He is creative, resilient, and curious. I admire his adaptability, willingness to take guidance and learn from it, and the brave way he went about doing what he did. “
— Cenerentola
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The Cat I Never Named
by Amra Sabic-El-Rayess
A moving and heartrending account of Sabic-El-Rayess’s experience growing up as a Muslim girl in Bosnia during the Bosnian War. Ultimately a political memoir about the power of education and questions of freedom, war, and hatred set against a backdrop new to many young readers.
Why It’s Great for Kids
Tucked between the horrors of World War II, Vietnam and the twenty-year war in Afghanistan, it is all too easy to forget about the Bosnian War that raged from 1992 to 1995. For kids who connected with books like The Diary of Anne Frank and The Book Thief, Sabic-El-Rayess’s true account of how her childhood was destroyed by the horrors of war will resonate.
Sabic-El-Rayess frankly details how friends turned on her family because they were Muslim, and she does not hold back in describing how prejudice and racism led directly to murder, genocide, rape camps, and more. In a world still hewn by racism today, her story is a powerful cautionary tale.
But in spite of all the horror she witnessed, Sabic-El-Rayess’s story is one of hope, a tale of perseverance during the darkest of times, a reminder that even in the depths of despair there is a reason to continue living, loving and fighting for what is good in the world.
Reviews
“Amra’s story serves as a cautionary tale on America’s own issues with racism and hate and how destructive this can be to a society. As my 6-year old daughter and I were laying these badges out for the picture, it was an opportunity to teach her about hate and about love, and how crucial is to never judge people by things they had no say in, whether it’s their place of birth, skin color, religion, sexual orientation, or any other reason.”
— Dino
“Beautifully written and moving. Framing the story around her cat Maci (Bosnian for cat) that was her emotional guide throughout the war while she was a teenager will really resonate with the teen audience.”
— Ms. Mester
“This book teaches us so much more…about humanity and human nature, faith, courage, persistence, the danger of hate and prejudices, and the importance of family values and education. I read the book in 1 day and couldn’t put it down.”
— Adisa Ziric
“The most moving and poignant book I have read in a long time. It perfectly describes the horrors of war through the eyes of a teenage girl, but in a way that is relatable, even for those who have never experienced such horror.”
— MISS
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Hole in My Life by Jack Gantos
In 1971, Jack Gantos needed money for college. Like many teens, he was also looking for adventure. So he agreed to ferry one metric ton of hashish into the United States. And got caught. And was sent to prison. For many people, that would be the dead end of their story. For Gantos, it’s just the beginning.
Why It’s Great for Kids
Every kid knows what it’s like to make mistakes. Many feel like those mistakes have ruined their lives, that there is no way out of the dark place they’ve found themselves in. That was Gantos’s story: a ridiculously bad decision landed him in federal prison and very well could have wholly derailed his life.
But it didn’t. Gantos’s memoir traverses not only the choices that landed him in prison but also how he left that dark place in his life behind. With wit and good humor and a spare, engaging style, Gantos explores how reading and writing led him from prison inmate to becoming one of the most beloved and awarded writers of his generation.
Excellent for reluctant readers, this is a frank and honest memoir, a tale that pulls no punches. Gantos is open about the recklessness of his youthful freedom, about drug use and partying, and it is laced with profanity throughout. While this may make some parents squirm, it is this honesty that ultimately connects with young readers.
And don’t overlook the follow-up to this book: The Trouble In Me.
Reviews
“Honest without being brutal, and always with that Gantos edge of detail and humor, I can close my eyes and still remember when I first encountered this book. I was impressed then, and I still am.”
— Sara
“I love this book, not just because the core story is genuinely remarkable, but because Jack tells it with perfect pitch. He neither moralizes nor excuses; he’s forgiving of his younger self without ever indulging him. By the end of the book, it’s clear that this isn’t some “misery memoir,” but the story of a young writer finding a resolve and a voice he hadn’t known before.”
— Jonathan Kranz
“This book deserves five stars because it keeps the reader hooked throughout the story, never dulls the readers interest, and shines a light on the life of an author who has overcome a lot and still become extremely successful.”
— Lauren Wilson
“The way Jack tells his story is so personal and raw which is very rare to find in memoirs these days. This is the kind of memoir that leaves the reader laughing out loud, wondering how this story could be true…”
— Grayson Greer
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Soul Surfer by Bethany Hamilton
World-renowned surfer Bethany Hamilton recounts how she overcame the many obstacles to get to the top of her sport (including having her arm bitten off by a shark). A powerful tale of faith, dedication and courage that demonstrates no matter how old you are you can still pursue your dreams.
Why It’s Great for Kids
For most of us, having an arm bitten off by a shark at the age of 13 would be more than enough to keep us out of the water forever. Not Hamilton. Her memoir is a moving profile in courage, detailing both the shark attack and her recovery. From the start, what she wanted to know most was how long it would be before she could get back in the water.
Athletes of all ages face challenges every day, but few have nearly died pursuing the sport they love. Hamilton’s story is an inspiration for kids everywhere who feel like the obstacles they face cannot be overcome. Her fierce determination and unshakeable faith serve as guiding lights for how to meet obstacles head on and push through them.
Written when she was still a young teenager, the book reads smoothly and is told in an easygoing style kids will relate to. For fans of the movie Soul Surfer, this updated version provides an in-depth look behind the scenes.
Reviews
“Inspiring and very interesting. I could not imagine getting out there so soon after losing an arm to a shark attack. It’s amazing the strength and courage this girl has. I seen the movie to this book a couple years ago and liked it but I am glad I got to finally reading her own words on the events. Really amazing story.”
— Suzzie
“This book is written in plain language in a colloquial young adult style. It serves as an inspirational example of a young person overcoming life-altering adversity.”
— Joy D
“This is a book for all ages. Even if she wrote this as a teenager she has the maturity and wisdom that goes way beyond that. I’m 22 years old and I found this book so compelling. I could not put it down!”
— Dave
“I’m actually using it in the classroom, and I have students talking about life lessons that Bethany shares: about being good team players, good losers, patient, and courageous in the face of adversity.”
— Elvin Ortiz
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Banned Book Club by Kim Hyun Sook
Kim Hyun Sook illuminates another forgotten period in history: the Fifth Republic of South Korea. Entering college in 1983, Sook entered an adult world controlled by a totalitarian regime that utilized censorship, torture and murder to maintain power. Sook’s story is an engaging tale of rebellion and the power of literature.
Why It’s Great for Kids
Sook was an excellent student in a world that preferred women did not become educated, and she looked forward to college as a way of broadening her world and escaping the traditional boundaries of her culture. Invited to join a book club at her new school, she quickly discovered the intersection of reading, ideas and politics.
In our world today young people are consistently asked to navigate conflicting versions of the truth, to evaluate the political context of what they see and read on social media, and to use their voice for activism. Sook’s memoir touches on all these points and reminds readers what is at stake when people choose to stay silent and remain ignorant of the reality of the world.
Though many kids are not growing up in a totalitarian regime, the issues of activism, youth vs tradition, and freedom vs censorship are as relevant as ever and will resonate with young readers. Sook’s book is gripping, well-executed and bears witness to a period in history that should not be forgotten.
Reviews
“Overall, this is a fantastic little graphic novel with a great message on how messy history is. At the end there is a reminder that history and progress is not a straight line. There are many curves and backtracking but the important thing is to keep moving forward.”
— s.penkevich
“Give it a whirl and get down with some Korean revolutionaries.”
— MissBecka Gee
“Now THIS is a graphic memoir I want to put in everybody’s hands.”
— Romie
“I lived in Korea for several years, learned the language, and studied the history. I don’t even know how many books I’ve read about the country and it’s history, but from now on this will be the first one I recommend when people ask for recommendations.”
— Steve Word
“I love how it definitely shows the darker side of things but doesn’t make that the focus. It’s not about the horrible things that were done. It’s about the hope of the few in fighting for that they know is right.”
— nina_chan01
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Bad Boy by Walter Dean Myers
An eloquent and moving memoir by one of the greats of children’s literature. Myers recalls the hardships and challenges of his youth in 1950s Harlem, how he was different from his peers (and the ways he was not), and explores how the world of books and ideas provided a route into the wider world where he eventually found his calling.
Why It’s Great for Kids
The struggles Myers faced in 1950s Harlem remain the struggles many kids face today. He was an angry young man, quick to fly into a rage and start a fight. He came from poverty, dealt with racism, and felt that he had to hide his interest in writing and reading so that his friends wouldn’t tease him.
Seven decades later, these challenges are still being faced by kids of all races and creeds. Myers’s memoir demonstrates not only that such obstacles can be overcome, but specifically how reading and writing helped him realize there was a much wider world beyond Harlem, one he could be a part of if he kept trying.
Reluctant reader boys especially will find much to identify with in Myers’s tale. And though most won’t have any desire to go on to be writers, Myers’s story will shine a light on the importance of literature, even if you hate school and drop out (as Myers did). This is a powerful book written simply and beautifully well.
Reviews
“Walter Dean Myers paints a vivid picture of the challenges a young kid in Harlem had to deal with in hopes of finding himself, it is a story that will change the mind of everyone.”
— Diamond
“He reminded me so much of some of my students: stereotyped as “bad” when it was really a defense mechanism or a reaction because of an issue he had (like his speech impediment). I loved that he highlighted the educators in his life that didn’t let him down or cast him aside and how he discussed how literature built him and influenced him.”
— Traci
“This book is a good read for teens. It flows well. It examines all of the insecurities that young people experience while learning to think for themselves. The story, which covers Myer’s early life, shows how a young man can make the most of his strengths, in spite of setbacks.”
— Bernard Lee
“I am basing this off of my son. He had to pick one of the summer reading options for 7th grade. He enjoyed it and it was a rather quick read…I read the memoir after my son finished. I’d say it is still relevant in this day and age. This story is a strong voice in teen literature today.”
— R.K.
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Knucklehead by Jon Scieszka
Growing up in a house with six brothers isn’t easy. It does, however, provide plenty of material to draw on for Scieszka, who grew up to become one of the funniest and most beloved writers of his generation. This intriguingly crafted memoir demonstrates how everyday family life can be the basis for both humor and creativity.
Why It’s Great for Kids
Scieszka excels at understanding precisely what tickles the funnybones of boys all over the world. Which should come as no surprise, since he has six brothers. This memoir is a tribute to the hilarity of a boy’s world and is filled with the kind of low, vulgar humor that boys love: pee swords, puke jokes, fried urine, eating cigarette butts, using the word rectum instead of butt…
Scieszka keeps things light and rollicking throughout. He peppers the memoir with dozens of small anecdotes kids can relate to: camping trips, crowded car rides, neighborhood games, the pursuit of comics and toys, and more.
Perfect for reluctant readers, the book is divided into short chapters laid out with plenty of pictures and comic book style illustrations. For kids who love a hilarious story that is fast and easy to read, Knucklehead does the trick.
Reviews
“You want a hook? Try five brothers. Five brothers and Catholic school. Five brothers and Catholic school and a mess of stories involving bodily functions and super cool (and not so cool) toys. Mr. Scieszka proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that when it comes to recounting your youth, there’s nothing like a plethora of XX chromosomes to keep the readers reading.”
— Betsy
“One more great thing about Jon Scieszka is his focus on bringing the reluctant reader (specifically boys) into the fold of READER!”
— Malbadeen
“My nine year old daughter adores this book. Her teacher had read some of it to her class. She loves to read it aloud to me.”
— Sarah
“Knucklehead is a fantastic book for adults or kids. A super quick read, it is among a very sparse collection of books that puts me into tears of laughter so severe I have to force myself to think of something else so I can breathe. A kind of laughter that is good for the soul.”
— Timothy Male
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It Came From Ohio by RL Stine
Recent years have seen a real RL Stine renaissance with the release of two Goosebumps movies, a Fear Street trilogy on Netflix, forays into graphic novels, a reboot called Return to Fear Street, and more. Now seems like the perfect time to dive into how it all began and Stine’s own story of becoming the most popular kid’s writer ever.
Why It’s Great for Kids
With some 400 million books sold (and counting), and two of the most beloved kids series in the history of publishing, Stine may very well be the bestselling writer for children in the history of publishing. And kids love him for a reason: he’s highly entertaining.
Stine’s short and punchy memoir traces the evolution of his rise to superstar author, exploring how the horror master started as a comic writer who never gave creepy stories a second thought. He is open and honest about his childhood desire to make his friends and family laugh, as well as his early failures in writing.
Stine’s life is a tribute to making the most of the talents one is given, running with new opportunities as they arise, and dedicating oneself to working hard in order to succeed. For class clowns, aspiring artists and writers, and any kid who wonders how weird the author of Goosebumps really is, this memoir is an excellent choice.
Reviews
“I chanced upon this book this weekend and finished it in two days. Reading this was a thrilling, fast-paced ride – just like reading a Goosebumps book back in the day.”
— Bhavesh Bhimani
“He doesn’t shy away from the fact that he was a class clown, he didn’t care about studying, he got in trouble a lot, he was pretty nerdy, and, most importantly, he unapologetically pursued his idiosyncratic interests from a young age. He also never gave up on his dreams and always works hard to please his fans.”
— Kevin Wright
“My 7 year old loves R L Stine. We read this together as research for a wax museum project he was doing. We both enjoyed learning more about his life and what influenced him to write. It has also inspired my son to write short stories and graphic novels so I love it.”
— Jeremy
“R.L. Stine’s autobiography. My son, 11 years old, is obsessed with this author’s books. He loved reading Mr. Stine’s autobiography and chose to do an independent reading project for school based on this author.”
— Jennifer H.
