Top-rated books by Ben Benenson
The Rocking Horse Winner
Age: 15-18
Books like Ben Benenson’s
Award winning
Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment for young Black boys.
Nurtures self-identity and self-worth in children.
Inspires resilience and ambition through relatable storytelling.
Supports developmental growth in empathy and emotional intelligence.

Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
Award winning
I Color Myself Different
Colin Kaepernick, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Empowers self-expression and identity exploration.
Fosters conversations on diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of unique personal backgrounds.
Illustrations that captivate and engage young readers.

I Color Myself Different
Colin Kaepernick, 2022
Award winning
Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional regulation through creative storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports development of coping strategies in children.
Engaging narrative that strengthens reading skills.

Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
Karen's Brothers (Baby-sitters Little Sister #17)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
112 pages
Why to read
Relatable blended-family situations.
Humorous, gentle life lessons.
Encourages empathy and honesty.
Great confidence-building chapter length.

Karen's Brothers (Baby-sitters Little Sister #17)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
A Kids Book About Gay Parents
Jonathan West, Thomas West, 2025
64 pages
Why to read
Promotes empathy and inclusion.
Answers kids’ real questions simply.
Great springboard for family talks.
Bright, bold, beginner-friendly design.

A Kids Book About Gay Parents
Jonathan West, Thomas West, 2025
Julián at the Wedding
Jessica Love, 2025
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse, loving families.
Inspires creativity and imagination.
Teaches resilience after mistakes.
Gorgeous art boosts visual literacy.

Julián at the Wedding
Jessica Love, 2025
A Kiss for Little Bear (I Can Read Level 1)
Else Holmelund Minarik, 2025
32 pages
Why to read
Promotes kindness and gratitude.
Perfect length for beginners.
Funny animal antics entertain.
Beautiful, timeless illustrations.

A Kiss for Little Bear (I Can Read Level 1)
Else Holmelund Minarik, 2025
Award winning
Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder
Debbi Michiko Florence, 2024
128 pages
Why to read
Highlights cultural diversity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages creativity and perseverance in young readers.
Supports comprehension and vocabulary development.
Aids in social-emotional learning and empathy.

