Books like Olive's Ocean: A Newbery Honor Award Winner
Award winning
The Year of Billy Miller
Kevin Henkes, 2013
240 pages
Why to read
Captures everyday school challenges and successes.
Encourages resilience and self-confidence in young readers.
Supports emotional and social development.
Inspires creativity and personal growth.

The Year of Billy Miller
Kevin Henkes, 2013
Award winning
Lillys Purple Plastic Purse
Kevin Henkes, 1996
32 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with vibrant illustrations and storytelling.
Teaches valuable lessons on patience and understanding.
Encourages expression and empathy in young readers.
Ideal for bonding during family reading time.

Lillys Purple Plastic Purse
Kevin Henkes, 1996
Award winning
Penny and Her Marble
Kevin Henkes, 2013
48 pages
Why to read
Encourages understanding of personal integrity and honesty.
Supports emotional development and decision-making skills.
Illustrated, captivating visuals hold children’s interest.
Stimulates discussions about right and wrong.

Penny and Her Marble
Kevin Henkes, 2013
Award winning
All Alone
Kevin Henkes, 1981
40 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of self-reliance and personal growth.
Encourages empathy and understanding through solitary experiences.
Beautiful, engaging illustrations complementing the narrative.
Ideal for discussions on feelings and resilience.

All Alone
Kevin Henkes, 1981
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
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
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience through engaging, relatable storytelling.
Highlights importance of friendship and teamwork.
Encourages understanding and managing personal fears.
Supports emotional and social development.

Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
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.

