The Do More Club

Debut author Kramaroff crafts a thought-provoking verse novel about a group of middle schoolers pushing back against injustice following an antisemitic incident. As one of the only Jewish students at his predominantly white and Christian school, white sixth grader Josh has endured antisemitic bullying his entire life, making him feel uncomfortable in his own skin. “I liked it/ better/ when everyone/ wasn’t talking/ about/ jewish things,” Josh laments when the discovery of graffitied swastikas on the school building results in increased discussion surrounding his identity. Determined to create an environment in which he and his classmates can feel safe, Josh founds the Do More Club, a group of students dedicated to fighting bullying with kindness. When he notices racist comments being directed toward a Black classmate, however, Josh realizes that injustice runs deeper than his personal experiences. Approachable if underdeveloped messaging surrounding how readers can make a difference permeates the novel, and empathetic prose renders Josh as a vulnerable protagonist. Through carefully balanced moments of pathos and heart-wrenching descriptions of casual cruelty, Kramaroff weaves a gently compelling narrative of self-acceptance and beginner’s advocacy. Ages 10–14. (Aug.)