Clean Getaway

Reach for this book when your child is starting to ask complex questions about why the world looks the way it does or when they are curious about family history and the 'hidden' past. It is an ideal bridge for discussing how history impacts the present, specifically through the lens of racial identity and the American South. The story follows William 'Scoob' Lamar on a spontaneous road trip with his G'ma in her Winnebago, retracing the route she took decades ago. While the journey begins as a fun escape from being grounded, it quickly evolves into a profound lesson on the Jim Crow era and the Green Book. Nic Stone handles these heavy historical realities with a gentle but honest hand, making them accessible for middle grade readers. Parents will appreciate the way it fosters empathy and encourages intergenerational dialogue about justice, secrets, and the complicated nature of the people we love. It is a realistic, fast-paced adventure that validates a child's growing sense of social awareness.