Accused!

Reach for this book when your teen starts questioning the fairness of our legal system or expresses interest in how historical events shape current social justice movements. It provides a meticulous, age-appropriate deep dive into the 1931 Scottsboro Boys case, where nine Black teenagers were wrongly accused of a crime in Alabama. Through primary sources and archival photos, it explores themes of systemic racism, the bravery required to speak truth to power, and the grueling nature of the American judicial process. While the subject matter is heavy, parents will appreciate the book for its historical rigor and its ability to turn a dark chapter of history into a vital lesson on civil rights. It is best suited for mature readers aged 12 and up who are ready to grapple with the realities of racial injustice and the complexities of legal advocacy. It serves as an essential bridge for families wanting to discuss why some communities remain skeptical of institutional fairness today.