Books like An Unexpected Thing
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.

The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
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
Award winning
Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
528 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline sparks children’s curiosity and imagination. - Vibrant, relatable characters encourage empathy and emotional growth. - Enhances problem-solving skills through engaging narrative challenges. - Supports language development and literacy in early learners.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters creativity and imagination.
Introduces teamwork, responsibility, and friendship themes.
Engaging graphics captivate and maintain children's interest.
Encourages reading confidence in young independent readers.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 2023
Award winning
When the Fog Rolls In
Pam Fong, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Enchanting tale that sparks creativity and curiosity.
Addresses overcoming fears with courage and wisdom.
Enhances emotional understanding and empathy in children.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

When the Fog Rolls In
Pam Fong, 2023
Award winning
Hello, Mister Blue
Daria Peoples, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual development.
Encourages curiosity and exploration through engaging storytelling.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.
Fosters emotional intelligence and empathy.

Hello, Mister Blue
Daria Peoples, 2023
Award winning
Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
224
Why to read
Engages with humor, perfect for young readers.
Encourages creativity and original storytelling.
Nurtures emotional intelligence through character experiences.
Supports literacy with accessible writing style.

Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
Award winning
Bunny & Tree
Balint Zsako, 2023
184 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure between lovable Bunny and wise Tree.
Encourages empathy and friendship in early developmental stages.
Fosters imagination and curiosity through vivid storytelling.
Ideal for bonding during family reading time.
