Books like Blackberries in the Dark
Award winning
North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
357 pages
Why to read
Gripping mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
Strong, relatable protagonist boosts empathy.
Adventure-rich setting stimulates imagination.
Engages young readers with suspenseful, paced storytelling.
North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
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
Powwow Day
Traci Sorell, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrantly celebrates Native American culture and community.
Showcases the importance of tradition and belonging.
Encourages resilience and determination in young readers.
Supports emotional and social development through storytelling.
Powwow Day
Traci Sorell, 2022
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
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.
I Color Myself Different
Colin Kaepernick, 2022
Award winning
OCD Leave Me Be
Leah Cirrincione, 2023
44 pages
Why to read
Addresses OCD with sensitivity and understanding.
Empowers children to understand and manage emotions.
Encourages empathy and support among young readers.
Beautiful illustrations enhance the engaging narrative.
OCD Leave Me Be
Leah Cirrincione, 2023
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.
