Confronting prejudice is rarely easy. In these three children’s books, the authors bravely do it head on.

Russell Freedman’s portrait of a great American singer will capture the attention of any child over 10 years old and will pull in adults as well. “The Voice That Challenged A Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights” ($18, Clarion Books) isn’t just a book about a black singer fighting discrimination — it’s a story about an immensely inspiring musical career and the almost insurmountable obstacles the contralto faced in the first half of the 20th century.

When the Daughters of the American Revolution refused to allow Anderson to perform in Constitution Hall because of her color, the world-famous singer picked no fights, and years later, when the same organization sought her out, she readily embraced them. Asked if she had forgiven them, she replied, “Ages and ages ago. You lose a lot of time hating people.” Her equanimity is an example to all children, of all races. Her story teaches young people a valuable history lesson as well.

Startling, but not written for shock value, “Luna” ($16.95, Little, Brown and Company) by Julie Anne Peters, is a surprisingly believable novel about a transgender teen and his eventual, inevitable decision to have a sex change.

Compellingly written in first person by the teen’s younger sister, the narrative is — amazingly — not the least bit sleazy. Instead, it is a great read that teenagers will have a hard time putting down; although it’s 248 pages, many will probably try to read it nonstop.

It addresses questions that face any adolescent, no matter what their sexual orientation: questions of sibling love, loyalty and the many differences in family values. There are no pat answers here, only honest looks at difficult feelings.

Written well after the events of Sept. 11, but without any mention of it, David Macaulay’s “Mosque” ($18, Houghton Mifflin Company) focuses on the fictional construction of a 16th-century structure to show simultaneously how such a wonder could be created and how the Muslim faith was a part of the construction process. Accessible to anybody middle school age or older, the book is refreshingly unbiased.

The particulars of the religion are not extensively dealt with, but the picture Macaulay creates in words and immaculately detailed illustrations is still quite revealing of a faith Americans often have difficulty dealing with. He avoids political messages and presents a fascinating view of another culture. No matter what a child’s background, “Mosque” is enlightening.

Ultimately, such enlightenment is the reason all these kids’ books deserve to be read and then passed along to friends, to ensure the widest audience possible.