Books for Elementary Students
Generation Fix: Young Ideas for a Better World by Elizabeth Rusch
A series of inspiring stories of young people who have made a difference. These preteens and teens raised money for school supplies for needy children, testified against a ban on gay marriage, collected boxes of cereal for the hungry and initiated a variety of other community service and social action projects. Ages 8 and up.
Stand Up, Speak Out: A Book About Children’s Rights
An examination of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child through the drawings and writings of young people around the world. Ages 9-12.
Books for Young Adults
Celebrate People’s History!: The Poster Book of Resistance and Revolution edited by Josh MacPhee
A visual history of revolutions in America. Each poster is paired with the historical background of the event. Ages 8 and up.
Peace Jam: A Billion Simple Acts of Peace by Ivan Suvanjieff
This inspiring book profiles Nobel Peace Laureates (such as the Dalai Lama and the Archbishop Desmond Tutu) and their work with teens in the Peace Jam movement, and provides tips on how the reader can get involved. Ages 12 and up.
I Will Make a Difference: Students Aspire to Inspire by Gary Martin Hayes and Adam Christopher Wear
In this inspiring collection, 35 students tell of how they plan to make a difference in the world, and how the steps that they take now and in the future will allow them to reach their full potential.
It’s Your World If You Don’t Like It, Change It: Activism For Teenagers by Mikki Halpin
A guide for teenagers who wish to become activists, It’s Your World provides an overview of several topics, including animal rights, women’s rights, and civil liberties, and provides ideas for getting involved. Includes a list of additional resources. Ages 12 and up.
Photography as Activism: Images for Social Change by Michelle Bogre
Images can be used to bring attention to much-needed subjects. An alternative to writing letters and protesting, photography and the pictures taken can have just as much of an impact on its audience.
Take Action: A Guide to Active Citizenship by Marc Kielburger and Craig Kielburger
Learn the practical tools you’ll need to take action on issues that matter, including raising funds and awareness, writing petitions, surveys and letters, using the media and holding meetings.