Books like Beat the Story-Drum, Pum-Pum (Aladdin Books)
Award winning
Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan
Ashley Bryan, 2016
56 pages
Why to read
Richly imaginative, deeply moving poetic narratives.
Vivid illustrations enhance emotional connection.
Encourages empathy and historical awareness.
Supports discussions on freedom and human rights.

Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan
Ashley Bryan, 2016
Lightfall: Shadow of the Bird (Lightfall 2)
Tim Probert, 2022
249 pages
Why to read
Engaging fantasy adventure fosters creativity.
Builds resilience through character challenges.
Enhances problem-solving with intricate plot twists.
Strengthens reading skills in young readers.

Lightfall: Shadow of the Bird (Lightfall 2)
Tim Probert, 2022
Award winning
When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left
Marc Colagiovanni, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages resilience through creative problem-solving strategies.
Empowers children to handle challenges with positivity.
Engages young readers with humor and relatable scenarios.
Supports developmental growth in decision-making skills.

When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left
Marc Colagiovanni, 2023
Award winning
The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
Award winning
Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling enchants and captivates young minds.
Illustrates resilience and courage through engaging narratives.
Fosters emotional growth and understanding in children.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading sessions.

Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
Award winning
A Tangle of Spells
Michelle Harrison, 2021
334 pages
Why to read
Engaging, magical adventure stimulates creativity and imagination.
Features strong, relatable characters promoting resilience and empathy.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving through plot challenges.
Ideal for enhancing vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

A Tangle of Spells
Michelle Harrison, 2021
Award winning
The Adventures of Pinocchio: With Annotated
Carlo Collodi, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Classic tale encourages honesty and integrity.
Enhances imagination with whimsical adventures.
Annotated version offers comprehensive understanding.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

The Adventures of Pinocchio: With Annotated
Carlo Collodi, 2021
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

