Best Lit as Activism 2018

Using literature in the classroom, well chosen, sometimes controversial, is its own political activism.
Here's to this year's winners.

1.  A Girl Like That

Why this is on the list:

I am a sucker for a tragic love story. Ms. Bhathena also writes a letter to the readers that is very powerful.

My own story is different from Zarin's and Mishal's. Yet it does not make their stories any less true, nor does it diminish the reality of living in a world that still defines girls in various ways without letting them define themselves. This book is a love letter to them all.

2.  The Hate U Give
Why this is on the list:

• It is on everyone's list
• More awareness of race tensions, police tensions, urban unrest, poverty. . .
• Movie did justice to the book

There are a lot of issues to talk about with students. It is not just about race. It is not just about black and white. This is a good book to run philosophy circles with. 

3.  Long Way Down

Why this is on the list:

• Jason Reynolds was a reluctant reader who writes for reluctant readers
• A novel written in poetry, especially done well is a very political choice
• Good discussion comes from a non-ending

Teachers who choose literature that allows students to have very philosophical questions will nurture students who feel and empathize and dream of a better world.