Top-rated books by Rod McKuen
Hand in Hand
Age: 2-6
Books like Rod McKuen’s
Award winning
Stickler Loves the World
Lane Smith, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of empathy and global awareness.
Encourages appreciation for diversity and cultural differences.
Stimulates curiosity about the world and different places.
Supports language development and geographical knowledge.

Stickler Loves the World
Lane Smith, 2023
K Is in Trouble (A Graphic Novel)
Gary Clement, 2024
224 pages
Why to read
Engaging graphic novel format enhances visual literacy.
Encourages empathy through character challenges and growth.
Stimulates imagination, essential for creative development.
Supports language skills with accessible, vibrant dialogue.

K Is in Trouble (A Graphic Novel)
Gary Clement, 2024
Award winning
WE ARE ALL CONNECTED: CARING FOR EACH OTHER & THE EARTH
Gabi Garcia, 2022
36 pages
Why to read
Fosters empathy and environmental responsibility in young readers.
Illustrates interconnectedness through engaging, colorful illustrations.
Encourages discussions on caring and community importance.
Supports development of social and emotional skills.

WE ARE ALL CONNECTED: CARING FOR EACH OTHER & THE EARTH
Gabi Garcia, 2022
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
Frankenslime
Ashley Belote, Joy Keller, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Sparks creativity and scientific curiosity in young minds.
Encourages experimentation through fun, gooey slime adventures.
Engages kids with humorous, lively illustrations.
Ideal for interactive read-aloud sessions.

Frankenslime
Ashley Belote, Joy Keller, 2021
Award winning
Avocado Asks
Momoko Abe, 2020
32 pages
Why to read
Explores identity and self-discovery through engaging storytelling.
Colorful illustrations captivate and stimulate children's imagination.
Encourages empathy and understanding toward others' perspectives.
Perfect blend of humor and life lessons for young readers.

Avocado Asks
Momoko Abe, 2020
Award winning
Ten-Word Tiny Tales
Joseph Coelho, Alex T. Smith, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Promotes creativity through concise, imaginative storytelling.
Enhances vocabulary with rich, carefully chosen language.
Encourages emotional intelligence and empathy development.
Ideal for quick, engaging read-aloud sessions.

Ten-Word Tiny Tales
Joseph Coelho, Alex T. Smith, 2023
Award winning
A Very Cranky Book
Tony Diterlizzi, Angela Diterlizzi, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with colorful, spirited illustrations.
Encourages recognition of emotions and self-expression.
Supports development of empathy and patience.
Perfect for interactive read-aloud sessions.
