What's it about: In this true story, two brothes escape civil war in Somalia and find themselves in a refugee camp in Kenya for several years.

Why I love this book: As a graphic novel, it's a quick read which is great for a read-aloud. Additionally, the pictures help the students understand a world that is very different than their own.

This book would be great for the start of the school year or in the spring when attention and effort start to wain. One of the main messages is the value of relationships and education.

There is a fantastic book guide with vocabulary, discussion guides and assessments. https://www.penguinclassroom.com/books/when-stars-are-scattered/.

What's it about: This book explores the causes and effects of the 1918 Flu on the world.

Why I love this book: It is certainly easy to relate to a world where a disease takes over every aspect of your life! This is another graphic novel that helps students explore the toll of disease, especially at a time when germs theory wasn't totally understood.

I used this book during my Medieval Europe Unit. It easily connected to any lesson on the Bubonic Plague.

What's it about: This is the story of Sundiata, a king of Mali. It tells about his trials and the community he builds as he attempts to save the throne from wicked men and women.

Why I love this book: This story book is a quick and engaging read! The illustrations are beautiful and the designs on each page are a tribute to the culture of West Africa. It is easy for students to connect to a young boy who is picked on and has to overcome so much.

Click here to visit my Teachers Pay Teachers Store and see the lesson I used to accompany this book!

You might be thinking, how do I read a graphic novel aloud?! I used a document camera borrowed from the math department (they always have extra!) Or you can turn your phone into a document camera .