Books like Ida, Always
Award winning
North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
357 pages
Why to read
Gripping mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
Strong, relatable protagonist boosts empathy.
Adventure-rich setting stimulates imagination.
Engages young readers with suspenseful, paced storytelling.

North of Nowhere
Allison Brennan, 2023
Award winning
The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
368 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale promotes empathy and community spirit.
Engages young readers with charming, relatable characters.
Encourages resilience and creativity in problem-solving.
Fosters family connections and shared reading moments.

The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
Karina Yan Glaser, 2020
Award winning
Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale about the value of time and change.
Encourages resilience and adaptability in young readers.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.
Supports literacy skills through engaging narrative.

Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
Award winning
Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
80 pages
Why to read
Charming adventure of friendship and resourcefulness.
Enhances children's understanding of cooperation and sharing.
Lively illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
Supports early development of empathy and resilience.

Cornbread & Poppy
Matthew Cordell, 2022
Award winning
The Skull
Jon Klassen, Fairuza Balk, 2023
106 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with engaging, mysterious storyline.
Characters exhibit resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Encourages family reading and discussion.

The Skull
Jon Klassen, Fairuza Balk, 2023
Award winning
Mercy Watson Is Missing!: Tales from Deckawoo Drive, Volume Seven
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
176 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative encourages creative thinking and imagination.
Features lovable, relatable characters fostering empathy and connection.
Stimulates problem-solving skills through plot-driven challenges.
Enhances language development and storytelling abilities.

Mercy Watson Is Missing!: Tales from Deckawoo Drive, Volume Seven
Kate Dicamillo, 2023
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.

The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
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.
