Books like Cross My Heart
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
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
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging superhero-themed storyline sparks imagination.
Characters embody teamwork and perseverance.
Enhances reading skills through graphic novel format.
Encourages moral lessons and empathy development.
Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #12)
Dav Pilkey, 2024
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
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse family structures warmly and inclusively.
Enhances understanding of separation and reunion.
Encourages emotional expression and resilience.
Supports development of empathy and acceptance.
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
Award winning
Mercy Watson Is Missing!: Tales from Deckawoo Drive, Volume Seven
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
176 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative encourages creative thinking and imagination.
Features lovable, relatable characters fostering empathy and connection.
Stimulates problem-solving skills through plot-driven challenges.
Enhances language development and storytelling abilities.
Mercy Watson Is Missing!: Tales from Deckawoo Drive, Volume Seven
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
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
The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with a magical, captivating narrative.
Features relatable, diverse characters promoting inclusivity.
Enhances problem-solving through engaging plot twists.
Encourages family bonding through shared reading adventures.
