Families who loved It Was September When We Ran Away the First Time by D. James Smith often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing the unfair ways people treat those who are different from them. Set in 1951 California, this story follows twelve-year-old Paolo and his younger brother as they navigate a summer where the lighthearted fun of a local carnival is overshadowed by the harsh realities of prejudice. When their cousin Billy, who is deaf, befriends a Chinese American girl, the boys are forced to confront the narrow-mindedness of their community. This is an essential read for middle-grade children developing a sense of social justice. It handles heavy themes like racism and disability with a grounded, historical perspective, making it an excellent bridge for conversations about empathy and standing up for others. While it contains moments of tension and systemic unfairness, the core of the story remains rooted in the bond between the three boys and their growing understanding of moral courage.
