Books like Refuge
Award winning
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
368 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale promotes empathy and community spirit.
Engages young readers with charming, relatable characters.
Encourages resilience and creativity in problem-solving.
Fosters family connections and shared reading moments.

The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
Award winning
All Are Neighbors
Alexandra Penfold, 2022
44 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity, teaches acceptance and inclusivity.
Engaging storyline that fosters empathy and understanding.
Encourages community building and friendship among children.
Vibrant illustrations complement powerful, positive messages.

All Are Neighbors
Alexandra Penfold, 2022
Award winning
Your Name Is a Song
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2020
45 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity through melodic storytelling.
Encourages respect and pride in personal names.
Supports emotional and social development.
Ideal for shared reading and family bonding.

Your Name Is a Song
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2020
Award winning
You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages empathy and the importance of relationships.
Supports social and emotional development in children.
Reassuring, affirming message that all kids matter.

You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 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
My Two Border Towns
David Bowles, Erika Meza, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Vividly portrays bicultural experiences and family bonds.
Encourages empathy and understanding of diverse communities.
Beautiful, engaging illustrations complement the heartfelt narrative.
Supports bilingual language development and cultural appreciation.

My Two Border Towns
David Bowles, Erika Meza, 2021
Award winning
Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling enchants and captivates young minds.
Illustrates resilience and courage through engaging narratives.
Fosters emotional growth and understanding in children.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading sessions.

Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
Award winning
The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with a magical, captivating narrative.
Features relatable, diverse characters promoting inclusivity.
Enhances problem-solving through engaging plot twists.
Encourages family bonding through shared reading adventures.

