Books like Illuminations
Award winning
There Was a Party for Langston
Jason Reynolds, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Enhances vocabulary through dynamic, lyrical prose.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Inspires creativity and self-expression.

There Was a Party for Langston
Jason Reynolds, 2023
Award winning
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the engaging narrative.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.

Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
Award winning
Yukie's Island
Steve Sheinkin, Yukie Kimura, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Engaging adventure story enhances cognitive and emotional development.
Illustrations captivate and stimulate young readers’ imaginations.
Encourages resilience and self-discovery through protagonist’s journey.
Ideal for bonding during family read-aloud sessions.

Yukie's Island
Steve Sheinkin, Yukie Kimura, 2023
Our Story Starts in Africa
Patrice Lawrence, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Explores rich African heritage and culture.
Stimulates historical interest and multicultural understanding.
Enhances vocabulary with diverse language elements.
Supports emotional development through character experiences.

Our Story Starts in Africa
Patrice Lawrence, 2022
Award winning
Pluto Gets the Call
Stacy Mcanulty, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children with fun, space-themed adventures. - Builds empathy through Pluto's emotional journey. - Encourages curiosity about astronomy and planets. - Supports language development with playful narrative.

Pluto Gets the Call
Stacy Mcanulty, 2023
Award winning
Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling enchants and captivates young minds.
Illustrates resilience and courage through engaging narratives.
Fosters emotional growth and understanding in children.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading sessions.

Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
Okra Stew
Natalie Daise, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity through engaging storytelling.
Enhances vocabulary with unique, culturally-rich language.
Encourages family bonding over shared heritage stories.
Supports emotional development through relatable conflicts.

Okra Stew
Natalie Daise, 2023
The Midnight Panther
Poonam Mistry, 2024
48 pages
Why to read
Rich, vibrant illustrations stimulate children's visual senses.
Encourages cultural awareness and diversity appreciation.
Engages children in exploring themes of courage and friendship.
Supports language development and storytelling skills.
