Three kids. Three different schools. One magical closet that connects them all.
Mark Oshiro’s “The Insiders” offers a heartfelt coming-of-age story that seamlessly blends reality with a touch of magic. The narrative follows Héctor Muñoz, who feels isolated after moving from San Francisco to Orangevale, where being gay makes him feel different in ways he never experienced before. When Héctor discovers a magical janitor’s closet at school that connects him with two other kids from different parts of the country who are also experiencing discrimination, their unlikely friendship becomes a sanctuary against the bullying and isolation they face.
“The Insiders” has links to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it directly addresses how discrimination based on sexual orientation creates barriers and disadvantages that limit opportunities. Oshiro promotes being Open-Minded by exploring diverse perspectives through characters from different backgrounds.
Teachers might use this book for classroom discussions about recognizing inequality in everyday situations, creating safe spaces for diverse students, or inspiring action projects where students design inclusion initiatives for their school. The accessible, humorous tone makes difficult topics approachable while still delivering powerful messages about friendship, belonging, and standing up against discrimination. Teachers might use this book for classroom discussions about recognizing inequality in everyday situations, creating safe spaces for diverse students, or inspiring action projects where students design inclusion initiatives for their school. The accessible, humorous tone makes difficult topics approachable while still delivering powerful messages about friendship, belonging, and standing up against discrimination.
