Books like Abby's Lucky Thirteen
Award winning
Stacey's Broken Heart
Ann M. Martin, 1996
150 pages
Why to read
Addresses childhood emotions and coping mechanisms.
Encourages emotional intelligence and empathy.
Supports healthy expression of feelings.
Suitable for independent reading or family sharing.

Stacey's Broken Heart
Ann M. Martin, 1996
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
The Meanest Doll in the World
Brian Selznick, Ann M. Martin, Laura Godwin, 2003
304 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure enriches problem-solving skills.
Addresses self-esteem and peer pressure.
Fosters empathy and relationships understanding.
Enhances imaginative play and creativity.

The Meanest Doll in the World
Brian Selznick, Ann M. Martin, Laura Godwin, 2003
Karen's Ghost: A Graphic Novel (Baby-sitters Little Sister #11) (Baby-Sitters Little Sister Graphix)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
144 pages
Why to read
Fun mystery with gentle chills.
Shows power of teamwork.
Great for reluctant readers.
Teaches research skills.

Karen's Ghost: A Graphic Novel (Baby-sitters Little Sister #11) (Baby-Sitters Little Sister Graphix)
Ann M. Martin, 2025
Award winning
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.

Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
Award winning
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
352 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of LGBTQ+ community.
Develops empathy through engaging storytelling.
Inspires adventure and family bonding.

Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
Award winning
Ramen for Everyone
Patricia Tanumihardja, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Culinary adventure sparks creativity and cultural appreciation.
Engaging storyline with vibrant, colorful illustrations.
Encourages family bonding through cooking-inspired activities.
Supports comprehension and vocabulary growth.

Ramen for Everyone
Patricia Tanumihardja, 2023
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.

