Books like Dear Austin: Letters from the Underground Railroad: Letters from the Underground Railroad (Dear Levi Series)
Award winning
Small Beauties: The Journey of Darcy Heart O'Hara
Elvira Woodruff, 2006
40 pages
Why to read
Captures historical elements, enhancing kids' learning.
Boosts emotional intelligence through relatable family dynamics.
Encourages appreciation of small, everyday wonders.
Supports development of resilience and perseverance.

Small Beauties: The Journey of Darcy Heart O'Hara
Elvira Woodruff, 2006
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
Award winning
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Kadir Nelson, 2007
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring true story of courage and determination.
Teaches historical context of the Underground Railroad.
Encourages discussions on freedom and human rights.
Empowers children through resilience and hope.

Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Kadir Nelson, 2007
Award winning
My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-expression through hair.
Encourages confidence and self-love in young readers.
Supports understanding and acceptance of individual differences.
Interactive, engaging narrative for shared reading moments.

My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
Award winning
Overground Railroad
Lesa Cline-Ransome, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Chronicles a family's migration during the Great Migration.
Highlights resilience and hope in the face of change.
Educates on historical events through a child’s perspective.
Encourages discussions on history and social justice.

Overground Railroad
Lesa Cline-Ransome, 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
Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
160 pages
Why to read
Promotes creativity through engaging, imaginative adventures.
Highlights value of friendship and cooperation.
Encourages resilience and problem-solving skills.
Fun, relatable content for young readers.

Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
Award winning
Tía Fortuna's New Home: A Jewish Cuban Journey
Ruth Behar, Devon Holzwarth, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Explores themes of adaptation and resilience.
Strengthens family bonds through shared history.
Enhances empathy and understanding across cultures.

