In the continuing trend of bringing popular adult fiction and nonfiction titles to young readers (or time-challenged adult readers, in some cases), here we share a number of recent and forthcoming books for all ages, including adaptations of works by a prominent politician, an NFL champion, and a Holocaust survivor.
The Children of Willesden Lane: A True Story of Hope and Survival During World War II
Grammy-nominated pianist Golabeck shares the story of her mother’s escape from World War II Vienna through the Kindertransport, thanks to her musical talent.
Man’s Search for Meaning
Frankl’s influential Holocaust memoir is included alongside photographs, letters, and excerpts from his writing on psychology, providing context for younger readers.
Orphan Train Girl
This young readers’ edition of Kline’s bestselling novel Orphan Train stars a young foster child who forges an unexpected connection with an elderly woman.
Chasing Space
This memoir recounts Melvin’s career change after an injury ended his stint as a NFL player and he suited up as an astronaut with NASA.
A Storm Too Soon: A Remarkable True Survival Story in 80 Foot Seas
This middle grade adaptation tells the story of four members of the Coast Guard who rescued shipwreck survivors in extreme conditions. Tougias is also the author of The Finest Hours, which was adapted into film by Disney.
Forward: My Story
The soccer forward and U.S. Women’s national team captain shares her story of growing up to become a World Cup champion, adapted for middle grade readers.
Far from the Tree
The young adult edition of Solomon’s National Book Critics Circle Award winner explores the extreme differences between parents and their exceptional children.
Finding Gobi: The True Story of One Little Dog’s Big Journey
The young readers' edition of Leonard’s memoir follows her experiences befriending a stray dog who helps her complete an ultramarathon through the harsh Gobi desert, and whom she eventually adopts.
Bernie Sanders Guide to Political Revolution
Drawing on the impetus for his recent work, Our Revolution, former presidential candidate and current U.S. Senator from Vermont crafts a guide to political action for teens.
The Distance Between Us
This YA adaptation of Grande’s memoir follows her family’s trek from Mexico to the U.S. in search of a better life.
The Red Bandanna
The true story of an unsung hero of 9/11 is the subject of this teen adaptation of a nonfiction title originally released last year.
Shaken: Young Reader’s Edition
In this memoir adapted for teens, the NFL player talks about his victories, failures, and Christian faith.
Shoe Dog
The founder of the Nike brand adapts his memoir for teens, following his trajectory from high school track star to international athletic gear magnate.
Irena’s Children
Based on the true story of a Polish woman who helped smuggle thousands of children out of the Warsaw ghetto during WWII, this book adapts the 2016 title of the same name for middle grade readers.
The Elephant Whisperer: My Life with the Herd in the African Wild
This middle grade volume based on Anthony’s memoir follows the modern-day adventurer’s efforts at saving a herd of elephants in South Africa.
