Books like Hurry, Hurry, Mary Dear
Award winning
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
352 pages
Why to read
Inspires compassion through rescue animal stories.
Highlights importance of responsibility and care.
Encourages empathy and emotional development.
Engaging real-life tales boost reading interest.

Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
Award winning
A Pig, a Fox, and Stinky Socks
Jonathan Fenske, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with humor and playful language.
Strengthens reading skills through repetition and rhyme.
Encourages friendship and teamwork values.
Ideal for early readers, ages 4-7.

A Pig, a Fox, and Stinky Socks
Jonathan Fenske, 2021
Award winning
¡Vamos! Let's Cross the Bridge
Raúl The Third, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Vibrant, dynamic illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Cultural exploration enriches children’s global awareness and understanding.
Supports language development with bilingual English-Spanish text.
Encourages adventure and curiosity in everyday settings.

¡Vamos! Let's Cross the Bridge
Raúl The Third, 2021
Award winning
Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls
Atinuke, 2021
96 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience and resourcefulness in a young protagonist.
Evokes empathy and understanding through diverse social settings.
Enhances multicultural awareness and global perspective.
Supports development of literacy and comprehension skills.

Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls
Atinuke, 2021
Award winning
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 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
Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates family traditions through cooking and sharing meals.
Strengthen bonds with intergenerational, culturally rich storytelling.
Enhances understanding of community and togetherness.
Vivid illustrations complement engaging, heartwarming narrative.

Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
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.

