Top-rated books by Amy Hest
Books like Amy Hest’s
Award winning
Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages empathy, resilience, and personal growth.
Captivating narrative that keeps young readers engaged.
Supports emotional and social development.

Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
Award winning
The Best Man
Richard Peck, 2016
240 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of responsibility and personal growth.
Encourages understanding of diverse family dynamics.
Highlights importance of friendship and trust.
Engaging narrative with humor and heart.

The Best Man
Richard Peck, 2016
Award winning
Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters (Justin Case Series, 1)
Rachel Vail, Matthew Cordell, 2010
272 pages
Why to read
Captures school life with humor and authenticity.
Encourages resilience and self-expression among young readers.
Supports emotional development and empathy.
Engaging narrative that boosts reading interest.

Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters (Justin Case Series, 1)
Rachel Vail, Matthew Cordell, 2010
Award winning
Juana & Lucas
Juana Medina, 2016
96 pages
Why to read
Engaging tale of friendship and adventure.
Encourages resilience and perseverance in young readers.
Highlights cultural diversity in an accessible way.
Supports language development and self-expression.

Juana & Lucas
Juana Medina, 2016
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
Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder
Debbi Michiko Florence, Elizabet Vukovic, 2024
128 pages
Why to read
Highlights cultural diversity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages creativity and perseverance in young readers.
Supports comprehension and vocabulary development.
Aids in social-emotional learning and empathy.

Jasmine Toguchi, Bridge Builder
Debbi Michiko Florence, Elizabet Vukovic, 2024
Award winning
Junie B. Jones Series
Barbara Park, Denise Brunkus, 2015
90 pages
Why to read
Captures childhood adventures through Junie B.’s eyes.
Enhances vocabulary and expression in early readers.
Addresses real-life scenarios with humor and wisdom.
Encourages empathy and social skills development.

Junie B. Jones Series
Barbara Park, Denise Brunkus, 2015
Award winning
Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown
Paula Danziger, Tony Ross, Paula Danzinger, Dana Lubotsky, Live Oak Media, 2002
48 pages
Why to read
Captures first-day-of-school excitement and anxiety.
Highlights friendship and classroom community importance.
Enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Engages young readers with humor and warmth.
