Do you, or young readers around you, love finding characters to stick with for more than just a single book? Discovering a series is the perfect way to keep summer reading lists topped up, so we’re thrilled to feature the Neighborhood Novels by Adrian Fogelin, starting with Crossing Jordan. With the Neighborhood novels, readers can hang out with Cass, Jemmie, Ben, Justin, and the other kids in the neighborhood as they tackle life’s challenges, from building friendships to nailing a free throw.

In Crossing Jordan, twelve-year-old Cassie’s life is changed when Jemmie, an African-American girl, and her family move in next door. Can she and Jemmie overcome family prejudice and cultural differences in a small, working-class town?

Crossing Jordan

With unforgettable characters, author Adrian Fogelin addresses the complex issues of bigotry and tolerance with sensitivity and intelligence, poignantly reminding readers of fences that too often separate us from one another.

Read an excerpt and take a look at the teacher’s guide for summer book club discussion questions and activity ideas!

Get Crossing Jordan from your indie bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon! For more reading suggestions this summer, check out our summertime reading and summer-themed round-ups.