Books to Help Explain the Economy: Ages 9-12

Tyrell

by Coe Booth

Tyrell is a young, African American teen who can't get a break. He's living (for now) with his spaced-out mother and little brother in a homeless shelter. His father's in jail.

The Not-So-Great Depression

by Amy Goldman Koss

Carefree fourteen-year-old Jacki, who wishes for a hamster of her very own, is able to maintain her sense of humor though she is forced to learn some harsh realities about the economy when the recession begins to affect her own family and lifestyle.

Also Known as Harper

by Ann Haywood Leal

Harper Lee Morgan is an aspiring poet, which isn't surprising, seeing as how she's named after her mama's favorite writer, Harper Lee. And life is giving her a lot to write about just now. Daddy up and walked out, leaving them broke.

Ramona and Her Father

Series: Ramona Quimby

by Beverly Cleary Illustrated by Alan Tiegreen

Favorite author Beverly Cleary has been awarded the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal for 40 years of distinguished writing for children, and her best-selling books about Ramona, a well-meaning but often misguided little sister, certainly fall into that category.