Books like Laura Ingalls Wilder
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
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
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and storytelling.
Inspires with real-life librarian and storyteller Pura Belpré.
Encourages inclusion and diversity through narrative.
Supports language development and historical awareness.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2019
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
Where Are You From?
Yamile Saied Méndez, 2019
34 pages
Why to read
Explores identity and belonging through a heartfelt storyline.
Encourages conversations about heritage and personal history.
Supports emotional development and self-awareness in young readers.
Beautifully illustrated, fostering visual and artistic appreciation.

Where Are You From?
Yamile Saied Méndez, 2019
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.

Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
Award winning
A Book, Too, Can Be a Star
Charlotte Jones Voiklis, Jennifer Adams, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity and exploration in young minds.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Supports literacy development in early learners.
Enhances parent-child bonding over shared reading.

A Book, Too, Can Be a Star
Charlotte Jones Voiklis, Jennifer Adams, 2022
Award winning
The Story of Maya Angelou
Tiffany Obeng, 2023
64 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Maya Angelou's resilient, triumphant life story.
Encourages empathy, understanding diverse experiences.
Empowers children with themes of courage and hope.
Educational insight into historical and cultural contexts.

