Books like Real Friends
Award winning
The Princess in Black and the Mermaid Princess
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2022
96 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity with fantasy and adventure elements.
Encourages resilience and teamwork in young readers.
Supports language development and reading skills.
Builds empathy through diverse character interactions.

The Princess in Black and the Mermaid Princess
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2022
Award winning
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl: Squirrel Meets World (A Squirrel Girl Novel)
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2017
336 pages
Why to read
Engaging superhero story fosters imagination.
Showcases resilience, problem-solving skills.
Encourages empathy through relatable characters.
Ideal for enhancing literacy and focus.

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl: Squirrel Meets World (A Squirrel Girl Novel)
Dean Hale, Shannon Hale, 2017
Award winning
This Book Is Not for You!
Shannon Hale, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with interactive, playful storytelling.
Encourages curiosity and exploring boundaries through narrative.
Enhances understanding of personal emotions and decisions.
Fun, immersive experience boosting reading interest.

This Book Is Not for You!
Shannon Hale, 2022
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
The Tower of Life: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs
Chana Stiefel, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Teaches children about history and resilience through storytelling.
Inspires empathy and understanding through real-life tales.
Beautiful photographs enhance the engaging narrative.
Encourages family discussions about heritage and memory.

The Tower of Life: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs
Chana Stiefel, 2022
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
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.

