Books like Bad Best Friend
Award winning
Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters (Justin Case Series, 1)
Rachel Vail, 2010
272 pages
Why to read
Captures school life with humor and authenticity.
Encourages resilience and self-expression among young readers.
Supports emotional development and empathy.
Engaging narrative that boosts reading interest.

Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters (Justin Case Series, 1)
Rachel Vail, 2010
Award winning
Jibberwillies at Night
Rachel Vail, Yumi Heo, 2008
32 pages
Why to read
Addresses childhood fears with warmth and understanding.
Encourages emotional resilience and coping strategies.
Stimulates conversations about emotions between parents and children.
Engaging narrative that captivates young readers.

Jibberwillies at Night
Rachel Vail, Yumi Heo, 2008
Award winning
My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-expression through hair.
Encourages confidence and self-love in young readers.
Supports understanding and acceptance of individual differences.
Interactive, engaging narrative for shared reading moments.

My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
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
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
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
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.

Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
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.

