Top-rated books by Melina Ontiveros
How Do You Love?
Age: 3-5
Books like Melina Ontiveros’s
Award winning
You Made Me a Dad
Laurenne Sala, Mike Malbrough, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates the father-child bond through heartfelt storytelling.
Encourages emotional development and understanding of family roles.
Warm illustrations complement the affectionate narrative.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthens parent-child connection.

You Made Me a Dad
Laurenne Sala, Mike Malbrough, 2019
Award winning
Have You Eaten?
Su Youn Lee, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of food, culture, and family bonding.
Engages young readers with vibrant illustrations and storytelling.
Encourages curiosity about different cuisines and traditions.
Supports language development and comprehension skills.

Have You Eaten?
Su Youn Lee, 2022
Award winning
Chocolate Me!
Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, 2011
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-love.
Addresses issues of racism and acceptance.
Encourages confidence and pride in one's uniqueness.
Vibrant illustrations enhance storytelling.

Chocolate Me!
Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, 2011
Award winning
Hats off for the Fourth of July
Harriet Ziefert, Gustaf Miller, unknown author, 2000
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant, festive illustrations capture Fourth of July excitement.
Simple, rhythmic text ideal for early readers.
Celebrates community and patriotic spirit.
Encourages understanding of American traditions and culture.

Hats off for the Fourth of July
Harriet Ziefert, Gustaf Miller, unknown author, 2000
Award winning
The Runaway Hug
Nick Bland, Freya Blackwood, 2011
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale exploring love and family bonds.
Encourages empathy and emotional understanding in children.
Simple, engaging narrative ideal for early readers.
Supports development of social and emotional skills.

The Runaway Hug
Nick Bland, Freya Blackwood, 2011
Award winning
Duckie's Rainbow
Frances Barry, 2004
16 pages
Why to read
Colorful illustrations enhance visual learning.
Introduces basic colors and sequencing to young readers.
Supports early language development and vocabulary expansion.
Encourages interaction through guessing and discovery.

Duckie's Rainbow
Frances Barry, 2004
Award winning
When an Elephant Falls in Love
Davide Calì, Alice Lotti, 2014
26 pages
Why to read
Explores emotions and love through charming animal characters.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Beautiful illustrations complement the heartfelt narrative.
Ideal for cozy read-aloud family sessions.

When an Elephant Falls in Love
Davide Calì, Alice Lotti, 2014
Award winning
Zeki Gets a Checkup
Anna McQuinn, 2018
32 pages
Why to read
Promotes understanding of healthcare in a relatable way.
Enhances empathy through Zeki's interactive checkup experiences.
Reassures children about doctor visits.
Supports developmental learning in toddlers.
