Full Cicada Moon

Reach for this book when your child feels like they do not fit the mold or when they are struggling with the pressure to conform to traditional gender or racial expectations. Set in 1969 against the backdrop of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the story follows Mimi, a half-black, half-Japanese girl who moves to a predominantly white town in Vermont. Mimi dreams of becoming an astronaut, but she faces pushback from a society that thinks girls should be in home economics rather than woodshop. It is a gentle yet powerful exploration of identity, intersectionality, and the courage to pursue one's passions despite social barriers. Through beautiful verse, it helps middle-grade readers navigate the complexities of being different while finding a supportive community. It is a perfect choice for encouraging resilience and self-confidence in children aged 8 to 12.