Ann Braden

Braden investigates resilience and self-empowerment in her middle-grade novels, focusing on young characters who learn to stand up for themselves despite challenging circumstances. Drawing from her background as a middle school teacher, she crafts narratives that tackle difficult themes such as social marginalization and domestic adversity. This approach is evident in books like "The Benefits of Being an Octopus," which Edutopia hailed as a pivotal read for middle schoolers, and "Flight of the Puffin," which engaged students nationwide through read-aloud sessions.\n\nHer writing style emphasizes empathy and courage, encouraging readers to explore their voices and inner strength. Braden's work is marked by its commitment to inclusivity and kindness, promoting social awareness among young readers. Her most recent novel, "Opinions and Opossums," showcases these themes and was recognized as a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year.\n\nBeyond her books, Braden actively contributes to her community by advocating for social causes. She founded the Local Love Brigade, which sends supportive postcards to those facing hate, and GunSenseVT, a group that successfully pushed for gun safety legislation in Vermont. Through these initiatives and her novels, she connects literature with real-world impact, fostering a more compassionate and understanding society.