Best Cultural Heritage Biographies Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants, by Robin Wall Kimmerer and adapted by Monique Gray Smith, is a thought-provoking book that demonstrates how all living things provide us with gifts and lessons every day. This new edition reinforces the importance of listening to the earth's oldest teachers: the plants around us. With informative sidebars, reflection questions, and beautiful illustrations by Nicole Neidhardt, this book brings Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the lessons of plant life to a new generation. Overall, this book is an exceptional and unique read that will leave readers feeling inspired and connected to the natural world.

All Boys Aren't Blue is an inspiring memoir-manifesto by George M. Johnson that delves into the author's experiences as a Black queer boy growing up in New Jersey and Virginia. Johnson's personal essays touch on important topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, consent, and Black joy, making this a must-read for young adults looking to be allies or seeking reassurance as young queer men of color. The emotionally frank writing style appeals directly to the target audience, and the book has received numerous accolades, including being a New York Times bestseller and a Kids' Book Choice Award finalist. Overall, All Boys Aren't Blue is a powerful and unique addition to the social activist biographies genre and a must-read for anyone looking to expand their understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Rex Ogle’s Abuela, Don't Forget Me is a finalist for the 2023 YALSA Excellence in Young Adult Nonfiction Award and a lyrical portrait of a powerful woman who believed in her grandson even when he didn’t yet know how to believe in himself. Through humor, heartbreak, and hope, Ogle weaves life-affirming poems that honor his grandmother’s legacy. The book covers heavy topics such as child abuse, financial precarity, and racism in a searing verse memoir that speaks directly to what so many young people experience and offers them hope. A must-read for all YA nonfiction collections, this work is a testament to the enduring influence of unconditional love.

Dove is a memoir about Robin Lee Graham's solo around-the-world voyage in a 24-foot sloop when he was only 16 years old. The book is filled with extraordinary experiences and a youthful philosophy about life, love, and adventure. The author returned home after five years and 33,000 miles with a wife and daughter. The book has been described as "perfectly marvelous" and "an incredible story." It is a must-read for anyone who loves the sea or enjoys adventure.

"Every Falling Star: The True Story of How I Survived and Escaped North Korea" is a memoir that presents a horrifying real-life dystopia of contemporary North Korea. Sungju, a North Korean boy, was forced to live on the streets at the age of twelve. He creates a gang and lives by thieving, fighting, begging, and stealing rides on cargo trains. The book depicts his four years of danger and desperation after being abandoned by his parents. Sungju richly recreates his scabrous story, allowing young readers to learn about another culture where the freedoms they take for granted do not exist. Overall, it is a true story of survival and determination that provides a unique perspective on the modern state of North Korea."

Warriors Don't Cry is a compelling memoir by Melba Pattillo Beals, one of the Little Rock Nine who integrated Little Rock's Central High School in 1957. Through her harrowing ordeal, Beals acted with courage and dignity, refusing to back down in the face of racism, violence, and death threats. The book is a powerful reminder of the Civil Rights Movement's struggles and the bravery of young black students who used their voices to influence change. This Simon Pulse publication is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of America's past and present racial tensions.

Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids is an inspiring collection of biographies that introduces young readers to 51 black leaders and role models from both historical and modern times. From ancient Egyptian rulers to civil rights activists, this book features fascinating stories of trailblazers from the United States, Egypt, Britain, and more. The colorful illustrations bring these historical figures to life, while every biography includes an idea for a new way to explore the person and their work. This book goes beyond other black history biographies for kids, highlighting people from around the world and across time. Overall, Black Heroes is an excellent resource for children to learn about inspiring black leaders throughout history.

Badass Black Girl: Quotes, Questions, and Affirmations for Teens is a celebration of Black joy and an affirmation of Black girls' strength. Written by M.J. Fievre, this book provides powerful affirmations and insightful journaling prompts to boost self-esteem and promote positive self-awareness. The book also features quotes from Black female trailblazers who accomplished remarkable things in literature, entertainment, STEM, politics, and law, sports, and more. Overall, this book is a must-read for teenage girls who want to embrace authenticity and celebrate who they are.

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir is a poetic and captivating memoir by Margarita Engle, which showcases her experience of living in two different cultures during the Cold War. Through her vivid narration, Engle takes readers on a journey through her childhood spent in Los Angeles, where she felt lonely and out of place, and her summers spent in Cuba, which she describes as a fairy tale kingdom. The book is a recipient of several awards, including the Pura Belpré Author Award, YALSA Nonfiction Finalist, and Walter Dean Myers Award Honoree. Overall, this book is a beautiful and compelling read that highlights the importance of cultural identity and belonging.

"Nice" Jewish Girls is a captivating book that explores the lives of 36 groundbreaking Jewish women who defied the odds and made their unique mark in various fields, from politics and literature to activism and science. The biographies of historical icons and contemporary heroines, including Anne Frank, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Sarah Silverman, provide a fascinating window into the ways Jewish women have embraced their identities and approached their fields. The book is well-researched, inspiring, and informative, with impressive scope. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Jewish history and the achievements of Jewish women."