Top-rated books by Tamara Schmitz
Mallory on the Move
Age: 7-11
#02 Back to School, Mallory
Age: 7-11
Books like Tamara Schmitz’s
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
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
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
Jo Jo Makoons: Snow Day
Dawn Quigley, 2023
96 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and heritage.
Enhances empathy and understanding through relatable scenarios.
Encourages resilience and resourcefulness in young readers.
Provides engaging, fun-filled educational content.

Jo Jo Makoons: Snow Day
Dawn Quigley, 2023
Award winning
Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
192 pages
Why to read
Engaging, quirky adventures spark imagination.
Characters demonstrate resilience and teamwork.
Enhances problem-solving and social skills.
Ideal for fun, educational family reading.

Wayside School Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Louis Sachar, 2020
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
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
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.


