Books like Growing Up Powerful
Award winning
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates individuality and acceptance.
Encourages understanding diverse identities and expressions.
Inspires courage and resilience in adversity.
Family bonding through meaningful discussions.

Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
Award winning
My Gift for You
V Moua, 2023
43 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming story teaches kindness and thoughtfulness.
Simple, engaging text suitable for young readers.
Illustrations enhance understanding and engagement.
Encourages empathy and generosity in children.

My Gift for You
V Moua, 2023
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
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.

Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
Award winning
Embrace Your Sound
Courtney Vowell Woodward, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity through musical exploration.
Addresses self-expression and confidence-building.
Supports language and emotional development.
Engages kids with vibrant illustrations and storytelling.

Embrace Your Sound
Courtney Vowell Woodward, 2022
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
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
Keep Your Head Up
Aliya King Neil, Charly Palmer, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Boosts resilience through colorful, engaging storytelling.
Encourages positive thinking and perseverance in kids.
Interactive and captivating narrative sparks creativity.
Reassuring tone, ideal for building self-confidence.

