Books like Juan Verdades: The Man Who Couldn't Tell a Lie / El hombre que no sabía mentir
Award winning
The Lovesick Skunk
Joe Hayes, 2010
32 pages
Why to read
Engaging story about friendship and unexpected adventures.
Illustrations enhance the whimsical, captivating narrative.
Encourages empathy and understanding diverse perspectives.
Ideal for shared reading, fostering family bonds.

The Lovesick Skunk
Joe Hayes, 2010
Award winning
Everyone Knows Gato Pinto: More Tales from Spanish New Mexico
Joe Hayes, 1993
75 pages
Why to read
Captivating folktales from rich Spanish New Mexican heritage.
Enhances cultural awareness and appreciation in young readers.
Stimulates imagination through vivid storytelling.
Fosters family bonding over shared reading sessions.

Everyone Knows Gato Pinto: More Tales from Spanish New Mexico
Joe Hayes, 1993
Award winning
North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
357 pages
Why to read
Gripping mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
Strong, relatable protagonist boosts empathy.
Adventure-rich setting stimulates imagination.
Engages young readers with suspenseful, paced storytelling.

North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
Award winning
Standing in the Need of Prayer: A Modern Retelling of the Classic Spiritual
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Modern retelling enhances connection to historical spiritual song.
Stunning illustrations complement the powerful narrative.
Fosters cultural awareness and historical understanding.
Encourages family discussions on faith and resilience.

Standing in the Need of Prayer: A Modern Retelling of the Classic Spiritual
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2022
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
The Secret Society of Aunts & Uncles
Jake Gyllenhaal, Greta Caruso, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled story sparks imagination and creativity.
Highlights importance of family bonds and collaboration.
Develops critical thinking through engaging mystery elements.
Characters display resilience and resourcefulness, teaching valuable lessons.

The Secret Society of Aunts & Uncles
Jake Gyllenhaal, Greta Caruso, 2023
Award winning
The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
168 pages
Why to read
Timeless tales of adventure and moral lessons.
Cultivates empathy through diverse animal character perspectives.
Strengthens understanding of responsibility and respect.
Ideal for shared reading and family discussion.

The Jungle Book Stories
Rudyard Kipling, 2019
Award winning
Powwow Day
Traci Sorell, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrantly celebrates Native American culture and community.
Showcases the importance of tradition and belonging.
Encourages resilience and determination in young readers.
Supports emotional and social development through storytelling.

