Books like Better Than the Movies
Award winning
Julia Jones' Diary - Book 4 - My First Boyfriend: Girls Books Ages 9-12
Katrina Kahler, 2014
108 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional growth through first crush narratives.
Encourages resilience and self-discovery in challenging situations.
Emphasizes importance of friendship and trust.
Captures tween complexities with sensitivity and humor.

Julia Jones' Diary - Book 4 - My First Boyfriend: Girls Books Ages 9-12
Katrina Kahler, 2014
Love, Stargirl
Jerry Spinelli, 2007
288 pages
Why to read
Continues Stargirl's heartwarming journey of self-discovery.
Enhances empathy and emotional intelligence in readers.
Encourages self-expression and personal growth.
Captivating narrative that fosters a love for reading.

Love, Stargirl
Jerry Spinelli, 2007
Award winning
Forever Amber Brown
Paula Danziger, Paula Danziger Tony Ross, Tony Ross, 1996
140 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative, encourages emotional intelligence development.
Addresses themes of friendship and family dynamics.
Supports independent and critical thinking skills.
Perfect for family shared reading moments.

Forever Amber Brown
Paula Danziger, Paula Danziger Tony Ross, Tony Ross, 1996
Award winning
The Year of the Book: Anna Wang
Andrea Cheng, Abigail Halpin, 2012
146 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship and cultural identity.
Encourages empathy and understanding through character development.
Supports literacy and language skills enhancement.
Ideal for shared reading between parents and children.

The Year of the Book: Anna Wang
Andrea Cheng, Abigail Halpin, 2012
Award winning
Zara's Big Messy Playdate (Zara's Big Messy Books)
Rebekah Borucki, Danielle Pioli, Alexandra Jamieson, Bob Gower, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates creativity and imaginative play in young children.
Features relatable scenarios, fostering emotional intelligence.
Encourages social skills and cooperation through storytelling.
Engaging and educational, ideal for shared reading moments.

Zara's Big Messy Playdate (Zara's Big Messy Books)
Rebekah Borucki, Danielle Pioli, Alexandra Jamieson, Bob Gower, 2022
Award winning
Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, Richy Sánchez Ayala, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale about the value of time and change.
Encourages resilience and adaptability in young readers.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.
Supports literacy skills through engaging narrative.

Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, Richy Sánchez Ayala, 2023
Award winning
Lilly's Big Day
Kevin Henkes, Laura Hamilton, 2006
40 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of excitement, patience, and disappointment.
Enhances understanding of social roles and relationships.
Encourages emotional resilience and adaptability.
Ideal for fostering family discussions on expectations.

Lilly's Big Day
Kevin Henkes, Laura Hamilton, 2006
Our Special World: My Friends
Liz Lennon, 2018
24 pages
Why to read
Explores the value of friendship through engaging stories.
Enhances social skills and empathy in young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
Encourages discussions about relationships and cooperation.
