Books like Around Town
Award winning
The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Addresses anxiety with engaging, relatable storytelling.
Encourages emotional development and self-soothing techniques.
Supports early literacy with simple, rhythmic text.
Ideal for shared reading, fostering parent-child bonds.

The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
Award winning
Black Girls
Dominique Furukawa, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment of black girls.
Encourages self-love and confidence in young readers.
Beautiful illustrations enhance storytelling and engagement.
Supports emotional development and understanding.

Black Girls
Dominique Furukawa, 2023
Award winning
All Are Neighbors
Alexandra Penfold, 2022
44 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity, teaches acceptance and inclusivity.
Engaging storyline that fosters empathy and understanding.
Encourages community building and friendship among children.
Vibrant illustrations complement powerful, positive messages.

All Are Neighbors
Alexandra Penfold, 2022
Award winning
Grace the Cove Dragon (Dragon Girls #10)
Maddy Mara, 2023
76 pages
Why to read
Adventurous story fosters imagination and creativity in kids.
Characters model teamwork, friendship, and problem-solving.
Enhances literacy skills and instills a love for reading.
Addresses thematic elements suitable for age-appropriate discussions.

Grace the Cove Dragon (Dragon Girls #10)
Maddy Mara, 2023
Award winning
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the engaging narrative.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.

Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
Ruby's Repair Café
Michelle Worthington, 2024
28 pages
Why to read
Encourages creativity through DIY and recycling themes.
Supports environmental awareness and community involvement.
Improves problem-solving skills and teamwork.
Engaging story with vivid, colorful illustrations.

Ruby's Repair Café
Michelle Worthington, 2024
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.

The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
Finding Hope
Melissa Strangway, Nicola Baker, 2024
303 pages
Why to read
Encourages resilience through captivating storytelling. - Enhances emotional understanding and empathy. - Inspires hope and positivity in young readers. - Supports developmental milestones in literacy and comprehension.

