Lorna Schultz Nicholson

With wildfires looming in the not-so-distance, a family packs up to evacuate.

Strikes a nice balance between fear and reassurance, and sends the message that it's people (and pets) who matter more than possessions (but some special possessions come along too).

fire evacuation story

A story told alternately by a character with autism (Harrison) and a senior (Anna) who volunteers to be part of the best buddy program at her high school. Believable and thought provoking, the voice of Harrison is refreshingly honest and makes the reader really consider how the thinking of a person with autism might explain their actions.

Oh man, I love this book. A high school production of Grease, a main character with Down Syndrome (seriously, when was the last time you read a book where the protagonist with DS?), another main character dealing with homophobia, a touching story... Honestly, it's just so great. So much diversity, such a great message, and such great characters.