Turn passion into action with this empowering middle grade guide that helps young changemakers find a cause they care about, understand the issues, and take meaningful steps toward making a difference.
You don’t have to change the whole world to make a difference. You just have to start somewhere.
Make Your Mark, Make a Difference gives young changemakers the knowledge, tools, and confidence to explore the issues they care about and turn that passion into meaningful action. With an accessible, encouraging approach, this practical guide shows readers how to become informed, find their voice, and discover the many ways—big and small—they can contribute to positive change.
From Black Lives Matter and climate change to light pollution and healthcare equity, readers will explore a wide range of social, environmental, and community issues while building an understanding of human rights and how change happens. Stories of young activists taking on challenges at the local, national, and international levels offer real-world examples of what young people can accomplish.
Most importantly, Make Your Mark, Make a Difference reminds readers that there is no single way to be a changemaker. Whether they educate others, volunteer, organize, advocate, create, collaborate, or take action in their own communities, every contribution has the potential to matter.
Find what you care about. Learn what you can. Discover your voice. And make your mark.
Industry Reviews
Activists can be people of all ages who make changes in big and small ways. Whether raising money to put signs on the road warning drivers of frogs crossing, decreasing one’s home thermostat temperature and encouraging others to do the same, or leading a march protesting injustice or change, every effort can help a cause. The author shares with young readers what it means to be an activist and ways they can help in their home, school, and community. The earlier chapters cover overall aspects, while each additional chapter provides an in-depth depth look at issues such as animal conservation, the environment, space exploration, peace, equality, and poverty. Notably, Galat advises readers to ensure they are helping legitimate organizations when donating money and supplies. Readers will be met with a plethora of facts and guidance on activism, as well as stories of real-world activists. The volume of information can make this an overwhelming read for those who don’t already have the passion to be a leader in making a difference. Mini quizzes break up the reading and “get chatty” boxes feature questions to spark discussions between readers and people in their lives. Quotes from known activists at the beginning of each chapter are a refreshing and delightful addition. VERDICT While a valuable resource, this may be most useful where budding activists abound or where adults will use it to learn alongside the target audience.