Multicultural: International Stories
Each of these books not only tells a story, but teaches the reader about another country and culture.
The New Policeman
Age Level: 12-14
Though this book is a fantasy, dealing with alternate universes, fairies and a shifting definition of time, it also captures Ireland as well as any realistic fiction. Time seems to be going faster than normal in Kinvara, and the problem is a leak between this world and Tir Na Nog, the land of eternal youth. When young JJ discovers the source of the time slip, he also uncovers a huge family mystery. Kate Thompson's website includes files of some traditional Irish music that can greatly enhance the reading—as the book includes musical notations between chapters. This book won the Guardian Children's Book Prize and the Whitbread Children's Book Award in the UK.
The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain
Age Level: 9-12
Sis tells of his life growing up in Czechoslovakia under Soviet rule. Using cartoon-like illustrations, he describes a desire for Western pop culture, the small ways he was subversive, and the fear of the mysterious secret police. This was the won the Sibert medal for distinctive non-fiction for children.
19 Varieties of Gazelle: Poems of the Middle East
Age Level: 12-14
These beautiful poems reflect both the Middle East and the Arab-American experience. Nye is a renowned poet for young people, and this collection revolves around her heritage.
Facing the Lion : Growing up Maasai on the African Savanna
Age Level: 9-12
For many years, Lekuton taught school in the DC area, but before that he grew up in the Kenyan desert. Now, he's back in Kenya, serving in parliament. This is an autobiography of his Kenyan childhood.
La Linea
Age Level: 12-14
15-year old Miguel and his 13-year old sister have been in the care of their Mexican grandmother since their parents illegally immigrated to California. Now it's time for them to join their parents, but Elena has plans of her own. Though the story is fiction, it will bring to real life the plight of illegal immigrants and the risks they take to enter the U.S.
The Kite Runner
Age Level: 16-18
Two boys growing up in pre-war Afghanistan are inseparable until a betrayal divides them. Not only is this a beautifully written story, but it features a country so prominent in the news.
Bindi Babes
Age Level: 12-14
Three Indian sisters are growing up in London with their widowed father, and now, his sister, their strict Auntie. The story is light, but paints a vivid picture of Indian immigrants and British culture.
Revolution is not a Dinner Party
Age Level: 12-14
This semi-autobiographical novel takes place during the Chinese cultural revolution. Ling's parents are doctors, but when Mao comes to power, they are accused of being part of the "bourgeoisie." Ling must be brave and smart during this time of upheaval.
The Road of the Dead
Age Level: 14-16
Desolate British moors are a major character in this murder mystery. After his sister is murdered, Ruben and his older brother Cole go to reclaim her body, and discover the truth about her death. The violence isn't for the squeamish, but teens will enjoy this story that reads like a movie.
Aya
Age Level: 14-16
Aya lives in the Ivory Coast in the late 1970s, before civil war decimated the country. This is a view of African life not often shown in contemporary fiction--an Africa not unlike the West, told through the eyes of three girlfriends deciding between marriage, men and career.
