Books like Cecile: Gates of Gold (Girls of Many Lands)
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
The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Captures joyful essence of childhood adventures.
Encourages teamwork and community building.
Enhances empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates imagination through vibrant storytelling.

The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Captures essential American historical moments.
Fosters pride and understanding of national identity.
Encourages curiosity about historical events.
Stimulates discussions on cultural heritage.

An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
Award winning
FGTeeV: Out of Time!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2024
208 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters imagination and curiosity.
Characters model teamwork and resilience.
Enhances problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
Engaging narrative promotes a love for reading.

FGTeeV: Out of Time!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2024
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
In Time
Marina Ruiz, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Fosters imagination through adventure and time travel.
Encourages empathy through relatable and diverse characters.
Enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Supports vocabulary growth and understanding.

In Time
Marina Ruiz, 2024
Award winning
Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Educates on historical events through narrative storytelling.
Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate language.
Encourages awareness and understanding of racial history.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.

