Books About Police Brutality

The Best Police Brutality Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

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 Hate U Give
The Shortlist

Our 4 Favorite Books About Police Brutality

Sale price
$2089
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2017

The Hate U Give

By Angie Thomas · Book #1 in the The Hate U Give series

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

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2017)Coretta Scott King Honor (2018)Michael L. Printz Honor (2018)Odyssey Award (2018)
454 pages· 95,550 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.5/5 Goodreads · 1,036,978 ratings
$21.99Save 5%
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?
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
3.9/5 Goodreads · 1,083 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
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?
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
4.2/5 Goodreads · 74 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
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.
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
3.9/5 Goodreads · 104 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
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?
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