Top-rated books by Janet Hamlin
The Girl With 500 Middle Names
Age: 7-10
Books like Janet Hamlin’s
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
Mr. Ferris and His Wheel
Kathryn Gibbs Davis, 2025
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates dreaming big and refusing to quit.
Introduces real engineering in kid-friendly language.
Colorful art holds attention and sparks questions.
Historical backdrop enriches classroom learning.

Mr. Ferris and His Wheel
Kathryn Gibbs Davis, 2025
Award winning
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience through engaging, relatable storytelling.
Highlights importance of friendship and teamwork.
Encourages understanding and managing personal fears.
Supports emotional and social development.

Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
272 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with interstellar adventure.
Introduces resilience through quirky, relatable characters.
Encourages problem-solving in whimsical scenarios.
Provides a fun, engaging reading journey.

The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
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
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
Award winning
Never Give Up: Dr. Kati Karikó and the Race for the Future of Vaccines
Debbie Dadey, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of determination and scientific achievement.
Highlights importance of perseverance in facing challenges.
Encourages interest in science and medical innovation.
Educational content aligned with child development stages.

Never Give Up: Dr. Kati Karikó and the Race for the Future of Vaccines
Debbie Dadey, 2023
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure, perfect for young readers.
Builds critical thinking through unique story arcs.
Enhances literacy with creative wordplay and language.
Supports moral development and teamwork values.


