Top-rated books by Professor of Music and Music Education David Elliott
The Tiger's Back (Gemma Open Door)
Age: 13-18
Books like Professor of Music and Music Education David Elliott’s
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
Knight Owl
Christopher Denise, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Heroic owl character inspires courage and confidence.
Engages young minds with captivating medieval adventure.
Strengthens reading skills through vivid, exciting narrative.
Encourages creative thinking and resilience.

Knight Owl
Christopher Denise, 2022
Gus: (Red Squirrel Phonics Level 2)
Paul George, 2021
24 pages
Why to read
Enhances phonetic skills through engaging narratives.
Develops early reading abilities effectively.
Vivid illustrations enhance understanding and engagement.
Tailored for young readers at Level 2 proficiency.

Gus: (Red Squirrel Phonics Level 2)
Paul George, 2021
Lightfall: The Girl & the Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2020
247 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled, captivating storyline.
Encourages creativity and resilience.
Strengthens reading skills and vocabulary.
Supports emotional and social development.

Lightfall: The Girl & the Galdurian
Tim Probert, 2020
Award winning
Beatrice Likes the Dark
April Genevieve Tucholke, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Empowers children to embrace their unique preferences.
Enhances understanding of sibling relationships and dynamics.
Encourages acceptance and appreciation of differences.
Stunning illustrations complement the engaging narrative.

Beatrice Likes the Dark
April Genevieve Tucholke, 2022
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
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
This Little Kitty in the Garden
Karen Obuhanych, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages outdoor exploration and curiosity in children.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual perception.
Enhances vocabulary through repetitive and rhythmic patterns.
Supports early learning about nature and animal behavior.
