Books like Holding Fast
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 Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
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
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
Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
80 pages
Why to read
Charming adventure of friendship and resourcefulness.
Enhances children's understanding of cooperation and sharing.
Lively illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Supports early development of empathy and resilience.

Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure, perfect for young readers.
Builds critical thinking through unique story arcs.
Enhances literacy with creative wordplay and language.
Supports moral development and teamwork values.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea
Dav Pilkey, 2023
Award winning
Diana: Princess of the Amazons
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, Victoria Ying, 2020
160 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure of young Diana discovering her strengths. - Addresses themes of friendship, identity, and belonging. - Encourages resilience and self-discovery. - Illustrated with vibrant and appealing artwork.

Diana: Princess of the Amazons
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, Victoria Ying, 2020
Award winning
Roosevelt Banks, Good-Kid-in-Training
Debbie Palen, Laurie Calkhoven, 2020
132 pages
Why to read
Engaging Storyline: 'Roosevelt Banks, Good-Kid-in-Training' offers an engaging and relatable storyline that captures the challenges and triumphs of childhood, making it a great read for young readers who are navigating their own personal growth and learning experiences.
Positive Role Models: The book features positive role models, including the main character, Roosevelt Banks, who demonstrates the importance of perseverance, honesty, and kindness, providing young readers with a character they can look up to and learn from.
Humor and Entertainment: Laurie Calkhoven's writing style incorporates humor and fun, which keeps readers entertained while also delivering important life lessons. This makes reading enjoyable and can help instill a love of reading in children.
Development of Reading Skills: 'Roosevelt Banks, Good-Kid-in-Training' is well-suited for middle-grade readers who are looking to improve their reading skills. The vocabulary and sentence structure are designed to challenge young readers in a supportive way, contributing to their literacy development.

