Books like Joanna Watson’s
Okra Stew
Natalie Daise, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity through engaging storytelling.
Enhances vocabulary with unique, culturally-rich language.
Encourages family bonding over shared heritage stories.
Supports emotional development through relatable conflicts.

Okra Stew
Natalie Daise, 2023
Award winning
The Adventures of William and Thomas (I Told You So! Book 1)
Mark Gunning, Stephanie Sims, 2023
113 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with thrilling adventures.
Enhances empathy through relatable sibling dynamics.
Fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
Encourages shared reading with captivating storytelling.

The Adventures of William and Thomas (I Told You So! Book 1)
Mark Gunning, Stephanie Sims, 2023
Award winning
Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale about the value of time and change.
Encourages resilience and adaptability in young readers.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.
Supports literacy skills through engaging narrative.

Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
The Sun Never Hurries
Roxane Turcotte, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Encourages creativity through vibrant, engaging storytelling.
Supports understanding of time, patience, and natural processes.
Strengthens reading skills with rhythmic, easy-to-follow text.
Offers a comforting, reassuring narrative for young readers.

The Sun Never Hurries
Roxane Turcotte, 2024
Miss Cat: The Case of the Curious Canary
Joëlle Jolivet, Jean-Luc Fromental, 2024
64 pages
Why to read
Engaging mystery plot sparks curiosity and imagination.
Relatable cat detective character encourages identification.
Enhances problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Fun, interactive reading fosters parent-child bonding.

Miss Cat: The Case of the Curious Canary
Joëlle Jolivet, Jean-Luc Fromental, 2024
Lenny Henry (Little People, BIG DREAMS)
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of Lenny Henry's rise to fame
Encourages perseverance and chasing dreams
Highlights importance of diversity and inclusivity
Engaging and educational read for young children

Lenny Henry (Little People, BIG DREAMS)
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2024
Award winning
Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Educates on historical events through narrative storytelling.
Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate language.
Encourages awareness and understanding of racial history.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
Award winning
Words Between Us
Angela Pham Krans, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children with a lively and imaginative narrative.
Features relatable characters fostering emotional connection.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Enhances literacy through an enjoyable reading journey.
