Books like Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution
Award winning
Harper and the Circus of Dreams
Cerrie Burnell, 2016
152 pages
Why to read
Vivid, dreamlike illustrations spark creativity and imagination.
Addresses themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery.
Enhances reading skills and emotional understanding.
Ideal for shared reading between parents and children.

Harper and the Circus of Dreams
Cerrie Burnell, 2016
Award winning
The Dance of the Violin
Kathy Stinson, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Inspires perseverance through captivating musical journey.
Boosts empathy with relatable emotions and setbacks.
Stimulates interest in music and creative expression.
Encourages resilience and learning from mistakes.

The Dance of the Violin
Kathy Stinson, 2019
Award winning
Anna Maria's Gift (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Janice Shefelman, 2010
112 pages
Why to read
Inspires musical interest and appreciation in young readers.
Addresses resilience and overcoming adversity through engaging storytelling.
Enhances emotional understanding and empathy among peers.
Supports literacy skills with accessible language and structure.

Anna Maria's Gift (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Janice Shefelman, 2010
Award winning
I Am Mozart, Too
Audrey Ades, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity through music-themed storytelling.
Highlights historical figures in an accessible way for kids.
Encourages musical interest and historical curiosity.
Supports development of identity and self-expression.

I Am Mozart, Too
Audrey Ades, 2022
Award winning
When Angels Sing: The Story of Rock Legend Carlos Santana
Michael James Mahin, 2018
48 pages
Why to read
Inspiring musical journey of iconic guitarist Carlos Santana.
Vivid illustrations captivate and spark children's creativity.
Encourages perseverance and following one's passion.
Strengthens cultural awareness and appreciation.

When Angels Sing: The Story of Rock Legend Carlos Santana
Michael James Mahin, 2018
Award winning
For the Love of Music: The Remarkable Story of Maria Anna Mozart
Elizabeth Rusch, 2011
32 pages
Why to read
Inspiring tale of musical talent and sibling support.
Highlights historical figures in an engaging, accessible way.
Stimulates interest in music and history for young readers.
Empowers children through strong, relatable female protagonist.

For the Love of Music: The Remarkable Story of Maria Anna Mozart
Elizabeth Rusch, 2011
Award winning
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found (The Vanderbeekers, 4)
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
351 pages
Why to read
Engages with themes of community and teamwork.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Explores complexities of friendship and family dynamics.
Offers heartwarming, adventurous narrative for young minds.

The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found (The Vanderbeekers, 4)
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
Award winning
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates Aretha Franklin's impactful life and career.
Inspires children with strong, influential female role model.
Encourages respect and determination through engaging storytelling.
Beautiful illustrations complement powerful narrative.

