Books like Boy Underwater
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
Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 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, 2023
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.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
Award winning
Words Between Us
Angela Pham Krans, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children with a lively and imaginative narrative.
Features relatable characters fostering emotional connection.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Enhances literacy through an enjoyable reading journey.

Words Between Us
Angela Pham Krans, 2023
Award winning
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
368 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale promotes empathy and community spirit.
Engages young readers with charming, relatable characters.
Encourages resilience and creativity in problem-solving.
Fosters family connections and shared reading moments.

The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.

The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
Award winning
Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
256 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, sparks imagination and curiosity.
Characters model resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through complex plots.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens bonds.

Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
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.

