Books like Shining On: 11 Star Authors' Illuminating Stories
Award winning
The Willoughbys
Lois Lowry, 2008
176 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure of old-fashioned yet quirky siblings.
Encourages teamwork, resourcefulness, and self-reliance.
Reflects family dynamics and individual growth.
Engages readers through humor and whimsy.

The Willoughbys
Lois Lowry, 2008
Award winning
Gooney Bird on the Map (Gooney Bird Greene) (Gooney Bird Greene, 5)
Lois Lowry, 2011
128 pages
Why to read
Engaging storytelling promotes curiosity and imagination.
Characters exemplify resilience and resourcefulness.
Enhances geographic knowledge and map-reading skills.
Supports development of language and communication abilities.

Gooney Bird on the Map (Gooney Bird Greene) (Gooney Bird Greene, 5)
Lois Lowry, 2011
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
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
Award winning
The Homesick Kitten
Holly Webb, 2022
128 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young imaginations.

The Homesick Kitten
Holly Webb, 2022
Award winning
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
352 pages
Why to read
Inspires compassion through rescue animal stories.
Highlights importance of responsibility and care.
Encourages empathy and emotional development.
Engaging real-life tales boost reading interest.

Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
Award winning
The Last Firefox
Lee Newbery, 2022
304 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure enhances problem-solving skills.
Promotes empathy through diverse, relatable characters.
Strengthens reading skills with compelling narrative.
Supports emotional growth, boosting self-confidence.

The Last Firefox
Lee Newbery, 2022
The Rescue
Warren Ravenscroft, 2021
38 pages
Why to read
Thrilling adventure fosters bravery and teamwork.
Engages young readers with relatable, courageous characters.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Supports literacy development through captivating storytelling.

