Books like Islandborn
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
Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations: A Graphic Novel (Cat Kid Comic Club #4)
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Encourages creativity through collaborative storytelling.
Enhances social skills and teamwork among young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage children.
Supports emotional development with relatable scenarios.

Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations: A Graphic Novel (Cat Kid Comic Club #4)
Dav Pilkey, 2022
Award winning
Drawn Together
Minh Lê, 2020
56 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and multigenerational bonding.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and spark imagination.
Emphasizes communication through art and storytelling.
Promotes mutual understanding and respect.

Drawn Together
Minh Lê, 2020
Award winning
Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story
Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis C. Bunten, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Rich in Native American history and culture.
Encourages gratitude and community values.
Beautiful illustrations complement storytelling.
Supports understanding of Thanksgiving from a new perspective.

Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story
Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis C. Bunten, 2022
Award winning
The 156-Storey Treehouse: Festive Frolics and Sneaky Snowmen
Andy Griffiths, 2023
368 pages
Why to read
Expands creativity with engaging, imaginative storytelling.
Strengthens reading skills through captivating narrative.
Fosters problem-solving abilities with playful challenges.
Encourages family bonding over shared reading times.

The 156-Storey Treehouse: Festive Frolics and Sneaky Snowmen
Andy Griffiths, 2023
Award winning
Octopus Stew
Eric Velásquez, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family connections.
Encourages creativity and resilience in problem-solving.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.

Octopus Stew
Eric Velásquez, 2021
Award winning
Aaron Slater, Illustrator
Andrea Beaty, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Empowers creativity and self-expression through illustration.
Inspires overcoming dyslexia with relatable protagonist.
Encourages perseverance and individuality for young readers.
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity in storytelling.

Aaron Slater, Illustrator
Andrea Beaty, 2021
Award winning
Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment for young Black boys.
Nurtures self-identity and self-worth in children.
Inspires resilience and ambition through relatable storytelling.
Supports developmental growth in empathy and emotional intelligence.

