Books like Bleakboy and Hunter Stand Out in the Rain
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
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
352 pages
Why to read
Inspires compassion through rescue animal stories.
Highlights importance of responsibility and care.
Encourages empathy and emotional development.
Engaging real-life tales boost reading interest.

Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 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.

Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
The Tale of Heidi
Johanna Spyri, 2020
262 pages
Why to read
Captivating journey of young, spirited girl in Swiss Alps.
Encourages resilience and empathy through relatable character development.
Explores themes of friendship and personal growth.
Engages young minds in picturesque, impactful storytelling.

The Tale of Heidi
Johanna Spyri, 2020
Award winning
Big Nate: Hug It Out!
Lincoln Peirce, 2019
176 pages
Why to read
Promotes emotional intelligence and conflict resolution.
Humorous, engaging narrative keeps children interested.
Encourages empathy and understanding among peers.
Supports social skills development through storytelling.

Big Nate: Hug It Out!
Lincoln Peirce, 2019
Award winning
The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family
S.K. Ali, Ibtihaj Muhammad, 2019
36 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and family bonds.
Encourages resilience and embracing individuality.
Illustrates the beauty of Hijab and tradition.
Inspiring tale, ideal for developing empathy.

The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family
S.K. Ali, Ibtihaj Muhammad, 2019
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
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found (The Vanderbeekers, 4)
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
351 pages
Why to read
Engages with themes of community and teamwork.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Explores complexities of friendship and family dynamics.
Offers heartwarming, adventurous narrative for young minds.

