Books like Curls
Award winning
A Place Inside of Me: A Poem to Heal the Heart
Zetta Elliott, 2020
32 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional resilience through poetic, compelling narrative.
Encourages empathy and self-reflection in young readers.
Supports emotional development and healing discussions.
Beautifully illustrated, enhancing engagement and understanding.

A Place Inside of Me: A Poem to Heal the Heart
Zetta Elliott, 2020
Award winning
Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional regulation through creative storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports development of coping strategies in children.
Engaging narrative that strengthens reading skills.

Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
Award winning
Under My Hijab
Hena Khan, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and understanding through vibrant storytelling.
Introduces cultural respect and awareness, essential for young minds.
Empowers identity exploration and self-expression.
Warm, colorful illustrations enhance engagement and retention.

Under My Hijab
Hena Khan, 2019
Award winning
America, My Love, America, My Heart
Daria Peoples-Riley, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity in heartfelt verses.
Encourages self-love and acceptance among young readers.
Vibrant illustrations complement empowering poetic narrative.
Ideal for fostering discussions on identity and unity.

America, My Love, America, My Heart
Daria Peoples-Riley, 2021
Award winning
Courage Out Loud
Joseph Coelho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Boosts confidence through relatable fears and courageous actions.
Stimulates conversation on bravery and overcoming obstacles.
Enhances empathy through diverse character experiences.
Ideal for shared reading, fostering family connections.

Courage Out Loud
Joseph Coelho, 2023
Award winning
Hey You!
Dapo Adeola, Alyissa Johnson, Sharee Miller, Reggie Brown, Onyinye Iwu, Jade Orlando, Gladys Jose, Diane Ewen, Chante Timothy, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Empowers and uplifts with diverse, positive representation.
Engages young minds with vibrant, expressive illustrations.
Encourages self-identity and confidence in children.
Interactive narrative fosters parent-child bonding.

Hey You!
Dapo Adeola, Alyissa Johnson, Sharee Miller, Reggie Brown, Onyinye Iwu, Jade Orlando, Gladys Jose, Diane Ewen, Chante Timothy, 2022
Award winning
Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Celebrates friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages emotional growth and resilience in young readers.
Integrates everyday challenges with enriching life lessons.
Vibrant storytelling that captivates and educates.

Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, 2021
Award winning
The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Captures joyful essence of childhood adventures.
Encourages teamwork and community building.
Enhances empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates imagination through vibrant storytelling.
