Donavan’s Double Trouble, by Monalisa DeGrossRead about the other entries on the list.
African American fourth grader Donavan thought this was going to be his year—but instead, he’s having trouble in school (spelling is no problem, but math is eluding him), and problems at home, where his beloved Uncle Vic has returned from the war in a wheelchair with both legs missing. Will his younger sister have to tutor him in math? And what are his friends are going to think when they see Uncle Vic in his wheelchair at a school event? Donavan’s perseverance in overcoming his problems with math and in repairing his relationship with his uncle will inspire and delight kids, particularly those who have struggled in school or at home. (Ages 8–12)
--Marshal Zeringue