But when she learns that her friend Violeta’s uncle-a man who is undocumented but working toward citizenship-has been detained by immigration, she knows it’s time to take charge. Soccer is huge in her world, and the sport has taught Maritza to be a good team player and leader. Maritza loves celebrating all the things that make her Latina heritage so wonderful: delicious food, colorful murals, and music-filled street festivals. Evette works hard to heal her world-family, friends, river, and all. Evette wants to know why her mother’s side of the family, which is Black, and her father’s side of the family, which is White, don’t get along. When she discovers a cute vintage swimsuit buried deep in her grandmother’s closet, she uncovers a secret from the past. When Makena experiences racism in her own neighborhood, she decides to use fashion to speak out about an important issue.Ī nature-lover, Evette is full of crafty ideas for upcycling and taking care of the planet, especially the Anacostia River near her home. On the first day of school, she puts butterfly clips in her hair as a sign that she’s ready for a change, like a caterpillar ready to transform. She loves matching her looks to how she’s feeling. Makena uses fashion to make a statement, and she posts her outfits online every day. Their relevant, timely stories show girls that they don’t need to wait until they grow up to make a difference-they can do it right now! Story synopsis

Together, they’re finding their voices on important social issues, like racial justice, environmentalism, and immigrant rights. Meet Makena, Evette, and Maritza-three friends working together to make their world a better place. Help a girl learn to create a better world

I Can Count by Denise Lewis Patrick