Kids can’t read anymore. Does it matter? (with author Jason Reynolds)

In 'Soundtracks,' Jon Acuff explores how overthinking hinders our potential and offers a proven plan to change overthinking from a problem into a superpower. The book introduces the concept of 'soundtracks' as the repetitive thoughts that shape our perceptions. Acuff provides practical strategies, such as creating personalized playlists of empowering soundtracks and using daily affirmations, to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. He emphasizes the importance of controlling our thoughts and gathering evidence to support positive thinking. The book is based on a study involving 10,000 participants and offers tools to help readers rewire their thought processes and achieve their goals.

The story follows Castle Cranshaw, nicknamed Ghost, a teenager who has always known running as a way to escape his troubles. After a traumatic incident involving his father, Ghost and his mother are left to fend for themselves. One day, he challenges an elite sprinter to a race and wins, catching the attention of Coach Brody, who invites him to join the track team. As Ghost navigates his new life on the track, he learns to harness his raw talent, confront his past, and form meaningful relationships with his teammates. The book explores themes of identity, friendship, and overcoming adversity.

The Captain Underpants series, written and illustrated by Dav Pilkey, follows the adventures of two fourth-grade pranksters, George Beard and Harold Hutchins, who live in Piqua, Ohio. The boys create a comic book character named Captain Underpants, who becomes real when they hypnotize their principal, Mr. Krupp. The series is known for its silly humor, outrageous plots, and the friendship and loyalty between George and Harold. The books have been translated into more than 25 languages and have sold over 80 million copies worldwide. The series includes 12 main books, two activity books, colored versions, and several spin-offs.

The book follows Greg Heffley, a middle school student, as he navigates the challenges of school and friendships. It includes his attempts to boost his popularity, his relationships with his family and best friend Rowley, and various misadventures such as the infamous 'Cheese Touch' and a disastrous school play. The book is known for its deadpan humor and engaging illustrated diary format.

The Hate U Give, written by Angie Thomas, is a young adult novel that follows the story of Starr Carter, a 16-year-old African-American girl who navigates between her impoverished inner-city neighborhood and her predominantly white private school. The novel centers around Starr's experience after witnessing the fatal shooting of her childhood friend, Khalil, by a white police officer. This event propels Starr into a national news story and leads to her involvement in social activism, highlighting themes of systemic racism, police brutality, black identity, and the struggles of code-switching. The book has been praised for its timely and powerful portrayal of the Black Lives Matter movement and the challenges faced by black Americans, although it has also faced controversy and been one of the most challenged books in recent years.

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is a powerful novel in verse that explores themes of grief, loyalty, and the cycle of violence. The story follows Will, a 15-year-old boy who seeks revenge for his brother's murder, but is confronted by ghosts from his past who challenge his perceptions. The novel ends on a cliffhanger, leaving Will to decide whether to follow the rules of his community or forge a different path.