Code Red, by Joy McCullough

Each Friday that school is in session, I share the link to a read-aloud preview of a book from SRCSA library. The “First-chapter Friday” selection for Nov. 8, 2024 is Code Red, by Joy McCullough.

Ever since a career-ending injury, former elite gymnast Eden has been feeling lost. To add insult to actual injury, her mom has been invited to present at her middle school’s career day, which would be fine except Mom’s company produces period products like pads and tampons. Total humiliation. And when Eden gets into a fight with a boy who won’t stop mocking her for it, she and her classmate Maribel both end up getting suspended. Eden is sent to volunteer at the food bank that Maribel’s mom runs. There she meets new friends who open her eyes to period poverty and invite her to join their advocacy work. But getting involved in activism for the menstrual movement puts Eden and her mom at odds.
https://youtu.be/lsVpg-d3z-A