Books About Police Brutality

The Best Police Brutality Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about police brutality? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 5 Favorite Books About Police Brutality

The Hate U Give
Sale price
$2089
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2017

The Hate U Give

A teen witnesses a friend's shooting, facing a choice that could change her community and risk her life.

454 pages· 95,550 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.4 Goodreads · 1,046,244 ratings
$21.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Starr Carter navigates life between her poor neighborhood and elite prep school. Her world shatters when she witnesses her unarmed friend Khalil's fatal shooting by a police officer. As Khalil's death becomes a national headline, Starr faces pressure from all sides. What she reveals about that night could ignite change or put her in danger. Will she speak out or stay silent?
Revolution in Our Time
Sale price
$1899
Chapter Book · Ages 12–+ · 2021

Revolution in Our Time

Uncover the untold story of the Black Panthers' fight for justice and self-defense in a divided America.

400 pages· 72,640 words· Est. 8 hour read
4.4 Goodreads · 921 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Explore the Black Panther Party's revolutionary journey through the eyes of their community activism and self-defense strategies. Discover how they empowered Black Americans against systemic oppression, becoming a formidable force in the civil rights movement. This gripping narrative reveals their struggle against intense government repression and highlights their enduring legacy, from the arrival of enslaved people to today's Black Lives Matter movement. Dive into this eye-opening account and be inspired to join the ongoing fight for justice, as Kekla Magoon invites a new generation to learn from the Panthers' courage and resilience.
Six Truths and a Lie
Sale price
$1899
Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 2024

Six Truths and a Lie

Six teens accused of terrorism must choose: betray each other or reveal secrets to clear their names.

400 pages· 89,687 words· Est. 8.5 hour read
3.9 Goodreads · 1,122 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Six Muslim teens find themselves at the heart of a deadly explosion off the California coast. Accused of terrorism, they face a harrowing choice: betray one another to secure their own freedom or risk everything to uncover the truth. Each teen harbors secrets—an aspiring doctor, an influencer, a perfect daughter, a soccer star, an immigrant in love, and an old soul. As the political game unfolds, alliances are tested, and the stakes are life-changing. Will they sacrifice their bonds for independence, or unite to reclaim their innocence?
Essie and the March on Selma
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Essie and the March on Selma

A young girl faces danger on a historic march for voting rights.

112 pages· 10,714 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 74 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Essie, a determined twelve-year-old, joins a pivotal march in 1965 Alabama, demanding voting rights for Black people. As she approaches the Edmund Pettis Bridge, state troopers block the path. Amidst chaos, tear gas, and violence, Essie must find the courage to stand firm. Will she endure the brutal opposition to fight for justice? Discover the gripping tale of Selma's Bloody Sunday and Essie's brave journey.
Who Is Colin Kaepernick?
Sale price
$474
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2022

Who Is Colin Kaepernick?

A professional football player uses his platform to protest police brutality and racial injustice.

56 pages· 4,085 words· Est. 35 min read
4.0 Goodreads · 108 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick's refusal to stand for the national anthem ignites a powerful protest against racial oppression. As his football career ends, his activism inspires athletes nationwide. Discover how one man's stand became a movement, challenging the treatment of people of color in America. What sacrifices will he make for justice?