WAYS TO BUILD DREAMS by Renée Watson

Middle school is just around the corner for Ryan Hart, which means it's time to start thinking about the future—and not just how to prank her brother, Ray! During Black History Month, Ryan learns more about her ancestors and local Black pioneers, and their hopes for the future, for her generation. She wonders who she wants to be and what kind of person her family hopes she becomes. Drawing on the ambitions of those who came before her and her own goals, Ryan is determined to turn her dreams into reality.