Top-rated books by Illustrator-Karen Lee Schmidt
Peter Cottontail
Age: 2-4
Books like Illustrator-Karen Lee Schmidt’s
Award winning
Deer in Danger (2)
Julie Sykes, 2023
128 pages
Why to read
Engages children with exciting wildlife conservation themes.
Builds empathy through character-driven stories.
Supports understanding of environmental issues.
Encourages family discussions on nature preservation.

Deer in Danger (2)
Julie Sykes, 2023
K Is in Trouble (A Graphic Novel)
Gary Clement, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging graphic novel format enhances visual literacy.
Encourages empathy through character challenges and growth.
Stimulates imagination, essential for creative development.
Supports language skills with accessible, vibrant dialogue.

K Is in Trouble (A Graphic Novel)
Gary Clement, 2024
Award winning
Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
528 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline sparks children’s curiosity and imagination. - Vibrant, relatable characters encourage empathy and emotional growth. - Enhances problem-solving skills through engaging narrative challenges. - Supports language development and literacy in early learners.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
168 pages
Why to read
Timeless tales of adventure and moral lessons.
Cultivates empathy through diverse animal character perspectives.
Strengthens understanding of responsibility and respect.
Ideal for shared reading and family discussion.

The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
Award winning
The Bad Guys in Look Who's Talking
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2023
192 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with humor and unique storytelling.
Encourages dialogue and enhances communication skills.
Supports emotional development through relatable scenarios.
Ideal for building confidence in young readers.

The Bad Guys in Look Who's Talking
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Blabey, 2023
Award winning
WE ARE ALL CONNECTED: CARING FOR EACH OTHER & THE EARTH
Gabi Garcia, 2022
36 pages
Why to read
Fosters empathy and environmental responsibility in young readers.
Illustrates interconnectedness through engaging, colorful illustrations.
Encourages discussions on caring and community importance.
Supports development of social and emotional skills.

WE ARE ALL CONNECTED: CARING FOR EACH OTHER & THE EARTH
Gabi Garcia, 2022
Award winning
Two Little Raindrops: An Exciting Story Inspired by Nature
Adele Lamothe, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure inspired by natural elements.
Fosters curiosity about weather and science.
Enhances understanding of teamwork and friendship.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

