Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
An autobiographical graphic novel that tells the story of the author’s childhood with an absent father and a mother suffering from drug addiction. This book gives voice to problems that are often silenced, such as parental absence and drug addiction. Most importantly, Hey, Kiddo doesn’t shy away from the emotions that accompany those problems, and it gives everyone a starting place to begin discussing these situations more openly.
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
Out of My Mind is the story of Melody Brooks who was born with Cerebral Palsy. Because of this, she has almost no control over her functions, and she struggles to communicate with those around her—but she can speak to us. Narrating the story, Melody tells of her growth and how she overcomes a wrong diagnosis, an inability to communicate normally, and a continual desire to become more independent. By the end of the book, the outside world begins to both understand and accept Melody for the bright, determined spirit that she is.