Books like Maya's Song
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
Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages empathy, resilience, and personal growth.
Captivating narrative that keeps young readers engaged.
Supports emotional and social development.

Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, 2021
Award winning
Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Renée Watson, 2012
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of resilience and determination.
Celebrates cultural history and musical heritage.
Empowers children through representation and diversity.
Encourages dreams and highlights overcoming obstacles.

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Renée Watson, 2012
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through storytelling and drawing.
Builds confidence with relatable, problem-solving characters.
Encourages teamwork and collaborative play.
Supports linguistic and artistic development.

Cat Kid Comic Club
Dav Pilkey, 2022
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
Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
256 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, sparks imagination and curiosity.
Characters model resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through complex plots.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens bonds.

Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2022
Award winning
The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
288 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure sparks imagination and joy.
Teaches values of friendship, loyalty, and hope.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Ideal for family shared reading and discussion.

The Christmas Pig
J.K. Rowling, Jim Field, 2021
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.

