Books like The First Part Last
Award winning
Lottie Paris Lives Here
Angela Johnson, 2011
34 pages
Why to read
Lively storytelling sparks imagination and creativity.
Lottie Paris character fosters relatability and companionship.
Encourages exploration of diversity and community bonds.
Supports language development and early reading skills.

Lottie Paris Lives Here
Angela Johnson, 2011
Award winning
All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom
Angela Johnson, 2013
40 pages
Why to read
Captures the significance of Juneteenth through a child's eyes.
Vivid illustrations enhance understanding of historical events.
Encourages discussions about freedom and equality.
Supports history learning with engaging storytelling.

All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom
Angela Johnson, 2013
Award winning
Karen's Haircut
Ann M. Martin, 2023
144 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of change and personal growth.
Encourages children to embrace new experiences.
Supports development of self-confidence.
Ideal for shared parent-child reading moments.

Karen's Haircut
Ann M. Martin, 2023
Award winning
Welcome to the Big Kids Club: What Every Older Sibling Needs to Know!
Chelsea Clinton, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Guides siblings on embracing new family dynamics.
Offers strategies to manage jealousy and share attention.
Encourages empathy and responsibility in older siblings.
Warm illustrations, engaging narrative.

Welcome to the Big Kids Club: What Every Older Sibling Needs to Know!
Chelsea Clinton, 2022
Award winning
Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates family traditions through cooking and sharing meals.
Strengthen bonds with intergenerational, culturally rich storytelling.
Enhances understanding of community and togetherness.
Vivid illustrations complement engaging, heartwarming narrative.

Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
Award winning
My Way to Good Choices
Elizabeth Cole, 2023
30 pages
Why to read
Emphasizes importance of making wise, thoughtful choices.
Engages young readers with colorful, captivating illustrations.
Supports emotional and moral development.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

My Way to Good Choices
Elizabeth Cole, 2023
Award winning
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse family structures warmly and inclusively.
Enhances understanding of separation and reunion.
Encourages emotional expression and resilience.
Supports development of empathy and acceptance.

Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
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.

