Books About Protest Movements

The Best Protest Movements Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about protest movements? 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.

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Protest Movements

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2020

The Black Kids

By Christina Hammonds Reed

A teen's life unravels amid the chaos of the 1992 LA riots.

400 pages· 91,156 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 11,444 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1992 Los Angeles, Ashley Bennett's privileged life shatters when the Rodney King verdict ignites citywide riots. As violence erupts, Ashley grapples with identity, family secrets, and a rumor threatening a classmate's future. Can she navigate a world divided by race and class, or will the chaos consume her? As her sister spirals into danger and her family's facade crumbles, Ashley must confront the harsh realities of her world. Who is the 'us' and who is the 'them' in a city on fire?

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2013

Violet Mackerel's Pocket Protest

By Anna Branford, Elanna Allen (Illustrator) · Book #6 in the Violet Mackerel series

Two friends launch a tiny protest to save a beloved tree from removal.

128 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 164 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Violet and Rose cherish their secret spot under the big oak in Clover Park. When a tree removal notice threatens their haven, they face a daunting challenge. Their initial protest fails, but they soon realize that those who care about small things might notice small protests. With renewed determination, they devise a clever plan to save the tree, standing up for all the little things—and people—who love it. Will their small protest make a big impact?

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2020

Love Is Powerful

By Heather Dean Brewer, LeUyen Pham (Illustrator)

A young girl discovers her voice can inspire change in a divided world.

32 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 440 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Mari, a young girl, prepares a sign for a rally, wondering if her small voice can be heard. As the crowd gathers, she learns that love's message is powerful enough to echo worldwide. Inspired by a real event, this story highlights the impact of youth activism in a divided society. Can Mari's message reach the world?

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

Property of the Rebel Librarian

By Allison Varnes

A girl defies censorship by secretly sharing banned books, risking everything for the freedom to read.

288 pages

4.1/5 Goodreads · 2,555 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Twelve-year-old June Harper's world crumbles when her parents ban books at school, suspending her beloved librarian. Discovering a secret library, June defies the rules, sharing forbidden stories in an abandoned locker. As her underground library grows, so do the risks. Can June's movement save her school and restore the freedom to read, or will it lead to her downfall? Dive into this empowering tale of courage, censorship, and the power of one determined girl to spark change.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 8–14 · 2023

Wildfire

By Breena Bard

A wildfire uproots a girl's life, forcing her to confront past friendships and climate change activism.

282 pages· 11,126 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 768 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: After a wildfire destroys her home, Julianna relocates to Portland, hoping to escape her past. But when Carson, a friend linked to the fire, reappears, she faces unresolved anger. Joining a conservation club, Julianna discovers the power of turning grief into action. Can she find healing and make a difference in the fight against climate change?

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2018

Anger Is a Gift

By Mark Oshiro

A teen must decide if anger can be a force for change amidst chaos and tragedy.

Schneider Family Book Award (2019)

464 pages· 118,283 words· Est. 11 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 6,553 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Moss Jeffries, a thoughtful student and loyal friend, feels trapped by panic attacks and a tragic past. At West Oakland High, he faces crumbling infrastructure and oppressive regulations. As tensions rise and tragedy strikes, Moss must choose between succumbing to fear or harnessing his anger as a catalyst for change. Can a group of teens make their voices heard in a world that treats them like criminals?

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

Dawn Raid

By Pauline Vaeluaga Smith, Mat Hunkin (Illustrator)

A 12-year-old's life changes as her family joins a protest movement in 1976 New Zealand.

288 pages

4.0/5 Goodreads · 738 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In 1976 New Zealand, 12-year-old Sofia's world shifts when her brother Lenny introduces her to the Polynesian Panthers, a group inspired by the Black Panthers. As her family joins the fight against injustices faced by Pacific Islanders, Sofia navigates the challenges of growing up amidst protests and police raids. Through her diary, Sofia discovers the power of standing up for what's right. Will she find her voice in a world demanding change?

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2017

Ethan Marcus Stands Up

By Michele Weber Hurwitz · Ethan Marcus series

A student's protest against sitting leads to unexpected school drama and invention challenges.

272 pages· 42,605 words· Est. 6 hour read

3.9/5 Goodreads · 144 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Ethan Marcus, tired of sitting, defies classroom rules, sparking chaos and a chance at redemption through the school's Invention Day Competition. As he teams up with his friend Brian, tensions rise with his sister Erin, and tech whiz Romanov offers no help. Meanwhile, Erin's friend Zoe navigates her feelings for Ethan, and loner Wesley might hold secrets of his own. With multiple perspectives, this story unravels the truth behind Ethan's stand and the surprising outcomes of his rebellion.

Sale price

$1498

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2006

That Girl Lucy Moon

By Amy Timberlake

A girl challenges corruption to defend sledding rights in her town.

304 pages

3.9/5 Goodreads · 274 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Lucy Moon is a fearless advocate for justice, unafraid to stand up for what's right. When her classmates are arrested for sledding on Wiggins Hill, and the local paper stays silent, Lucy takes on the town's wealthiest woman, Ms. Ilene Viola Wiggins. As she fights for sledding rights and against corruption, Lucy questions if one person can truly make a difference. Will her campaign bring change, or will she be labeled a troublemaker? Dive into Lucy's world of activism and discover the power of one determined voice.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 5–10 · 2018

If You're Going to a March

By Martha Freeman, Violet Kim (Illustrator)

Discover the essentials of joining a march and exercising your right to assemble.

26 pages

4.8/7 Bookroo·3.7/5 Goodreads · 225 ratings

$16.95Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Join the march with this engaging guide for young activists! Inspired by real experiences, it answers kids' questions about what to wear, how to get there, and the importance of marching. Learn about your Constitutional right to assemble and embrace the spirit of activism. Whether you're curious about logistics or eager to express yourself, this book is your perfect companion for making your voice heard. Ready to march and dance your way to change?

The Bookroo Book Club