Books like Old Friends
Award winning
Words Between Us
Angela Pham Krans, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children with a lively and imaginative narrative.
Features relatable characters fostering emotional connection.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Enhances literacy through an enjoyable reading journey.

Words Between Us
Angela Pham Krans, 2023
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
Nothing's Wrong!
Jory John, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Encourages emotional resilience and understanding.
Stimulates conversations about feelings and challenges.
Supports development of empathy and compassion.
Perfect for family bonding during reading time.

Nothing's Wrong!
Jory John, 2023
Award winning
Jo Jo Makoons: Snow Day
Dawn Quigley, 2023
96 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and heritage.
Enhances empathy and understanding through relatable scenarios.
Encourages resilience and resourcefulness in young readers.
Provides engaging, fun-filled educational content.

Jo Jo Makoons: Snow Day
Dawn Quigley, 2023
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
Award winning
Starla Jean
Elana K. Arnold, 2020
96 pages
Why to read
Engaging story sparks imagination and creativity.
Characters teach resilience and problem-solving skills.
Supports language development and comprehension.
Encourages empathy and social awareness.

Starla Jean
Elana K. Arnold, 2020
Award winning
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.

Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
Award winning
The Red Jacket
Bob Holt, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure enhances children’s creative thinking.
Encourages empathy through diverse, relatable character experiences.
Supports cognitive development with engaging narrative challenges.
Strengthens reading skills, perfect for family bonding.

