Top-rated books by Ricky Smith
Uptown
Age: 4-8
Books like Ricky Smith’s
Award winning
Footpath Flowers
Jonarno Lawson, Sydney Smith, 2015
32 pages
Why to read
Showcases importance of kindness, empathy in everyday moments.
Boosts observational skills through detailed, colorful illustrations.
Encourages appreciation for small, often overlooked beauties.
Wordless narrative fosters imagination and storytelling skills.

Footpath Flowers
Jonarno Lawson, Sydney Smith, 2015
Award winning
Sweet Music in Harlem
Debbie A. Taylor, Frank Morrison, 2004
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant celebration of Harlem's historical jazz scene.
Encourages appreciation for music and cultural heritage.
Inspires creativity and perseverance in young readers.
Supports understanding of community and teamwork.

Sweet Music in Harlem
Debbie A. Taylor, Frank Morrison, 2004
Witness Men: True Stories of God at Work in Papua, Indonesia (Hidden Heroes)
Rebecca Davis, 2013
144 pages
Why to read
Inspiring tales of faith and courage.
Introduces children to diverse cultures and environments.
Encourages empathy and understanding through storytelling.
Ideal for shared reading with family.

Witness Men: True Stories of God at Work in Papua, Indonesia (Hidden Heroes)
Rebecca Davis, 2013
Award winning
Four Corners: Let's Make Music
Margaret Clyne, Rachel Griffiths, Pearson Education, 2004
14 pages
Why to read
Enhances musical awareness and creativity in children.
Stimulates cognitive development through rhythmic patterns.
Encourages emotional expression via musical storytelling.
Supports language skills with engaging lyrical prose.

Four Corners: Let's Make Music
Margaret Clyne, Rachel Griffiths, Pearson Education, 2004
Award winning
Sidewalk Flowers
Jonarno Lawson, Sydney Smith, 2015
32 pages
Why to read
Stimulates emotional growth through subtle storytelling.
Enhances observational skills with vivid, wordless illustrations.
Encourages empathy and kindness in young readers.
Ideal for shared reading, sparks family discussions.

Sidewalk Flowers
Jonarno Lawson, Sydney Smith, 2015
Wake Up, City
Susan Verlander, 2004
28 pages
Why to read
Vibrant cityscape illustrations captivate young readers.
Engaging narrative encourages curiosity about urban environments.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.
Ideal for interactive read-aloud sessions.

Wake Up, City
Susan Verlander, 2004
Award winning
I Live in Tokyo
Mari Takabayashi, 2001
32 pages
Why to read
Explores cultural diversity through vibrant Tokyo life scenes.
Encourages geographical awareness and curiosity in young readers.
Illustrations enhance engagement and understanding of Japanese customs.
Supports developmental milestones in knowledge and social empathy.

I Live in Tokyo
Mari Takabayashi, 2001
Award winning
Sidewalk Circus
Paul Fleischman, Kevin Hawkes, 2004
32 pages
Why to read
Showcases the magic of everyday urban life.
Encourages observation skills and imagination.
Stimulates conversations about community and diversity.
Engaging wordless storytelling, ideal for all ages.
