Though the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic are still with us, this season’s Series Made Simple selections help support the demands of student learning in this difficult time and will also provide an opportunity for educators and developing readers to explore other topics. These titles collectively ask us to join the conversation about community, how we fit into it, how we might want to change it, and above all, how we can read and learn about it.

The communities here are many. Attention to issues of inclusivity and representation make for a more rounded presentation this season. Series on landmarks and locations as well as myths and legends offer readers an opportunity to disappear into stories centered around place, while offerings in history, social justice, and jobs and careers help them to think about the way history has shaped the present and where they want to see themselves in the future. Titles about the environment, animals, and natural science edge in on this discussion as well as invite us into the environmental collective. The books featured bridge history to the present, chiming in on the prevailing topics of the day, such as emerging career paths, recent history makers, and evolving engineering technology. The Spanish language series continue to cover exciting topics with excellent translation, with bilingual offerings as well. Many titles also offer resources beyond the usual back matter and include recipes, craft and project ideas, quizzes to check knowledge, and recommended resources for further reading.

We hope that this community of books will help broaden and deepen your own communities of readers and learners.

SLJ Reviews Editors
@sljournal

See all of Series Made Simple Fall 2021