My Bicentennial Summer

Reach for this book when your child is starting to notice they do not quite fit into the boxes society has created for them. This verse memoir is a powerful tool for children navigating the complexities of multiracial identity, especially when they feel caught between different worlds or cultures. Set against the backdrop of the 1976 Bicentennial, it explores what it means to be American when you do not see yourself reflected in the history books. Through the eyes of young Greg, readers experience the tension of a summer filled with national celebration and personal questioning. The book gently addresses themes of belonging, family dynamics, and the subtle ways racism manifests in everyday life. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to foster self-confidence in children who are beginning to ask big questions about their heritage and their place in the national narrative. The verse format makes the emotional journey accessible, providing a safe space to discuss identity and justice.