 I Am Alfonso Jones is a graphic novel that hits hard. Alfonso is a Black 15-year-old boy with big dreams, but his life is cut short when he’s wrongfully shot by an off-duty cop after a hanger is mistaken for a gun. In the afterlife, he meets other victims of police violence, while his family and friends fight for justice back home.
The story is raw, emotional, and eye-opening, with powerful artwork that brings it to life. It’s been challenged in some schools for tackling police brutality and racial injustice, but that just makes it an even more important topic to discuss. If you’re looking for a book that makes you think and feel, with great art to boot, this one’s a must-read. Check it out at the library. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian
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 Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You isn’t a dry history book—it’s fast, engaging, and written in a way that feels like a conversation. Jason Reynolds takes Ibram X. Kendi’s work and makes it super readable, breaking down how racist ideas started, how they’ve changed over time, and how they still show up today. This book has been praised for making tough topics easy to understand, especially for younger readers. But it’s also been banned in some schools for talking about systemic racism and U.S. history. Some critics say it’s too divisive, while others believe it’s an important tool for understanding the world we live in. No matter where you stand, Stamped gets people talking. If you want a fresh, honest take on history and race, this is a book worth reading. Get a copy at the library or download the audiobook. There is also Stamped (for Kids) that was adapted for younger audiences by Sonja Cherry-Paul. Reserve it at the library! Aimee Clark, IT Librarian   Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye is a heartbreaking and powerful novel that dives deep into themes of race, beauty, and self-worth. Set in 1940s Ohio, it follows Pecola Breedlove, a young Black girl who believes that having blue eyes will make her beautiful and, more importantly, loved.
Morrison’s writing is stunning—poetic, raw, and completely immersive. She doesn’t hold back in exploring tough topics like racism, trauma, child abuse, and societal neglect, making this a book that’s as thought-provoking as it is emotionally heavy. It’s not always an easy read, but it’s an important one that forces you to see the world through a different lens. Though The Bluest Eye has been banned in many places for its difficult themes, it remains a must-read. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you long after you’ve finished, reminding you of the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in literature. Get the eBook or audiobook download with your SPL library card. If you prefer a physical copy, contact us and we can order one through interlibrary loan. Aimee Clark, IT Librarian  It's Huck Finn, but through the eyes of Jim.
James by Percival Everett is a clever, thought-provoking story about identity and truth. With gorgeous prose, wit, and feels, it pulls you into a familiar journey with new twists and emotional depth. Everett’s personal stamp makes this a smart, engaging read that sticks with you long after you’re done. Aimee, IT Librarian Interested in this book? Click here to reserve it in the catalog! We even have it in Large Print! You can also reserve the eBook or audiobook for download with your SPL card! |
The SPL StaffWe work here at the library, and we’re into all kinds of books! How Do I Get These Books?See our Quickstart Guides page for information on how to use the online catalog and how to get eBooks and audiobooks for your specific device. You can also contact us there if you need more help!
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