Books like It's Hard to Be Five: Learning How to Work My Control Panel
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
FGTeeV Saves the World!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2022
208 pages
Why to read
Action-packed adventure for thrill-loving kids.
Encourages creativity and imaginative play.
Strengthens reading skills and comprehension.
Ideal for shared parent-child reading moments.

FGTeeV Saves the World!
Fgteev, Miguel Díaz Rivas, 2022
Award winning
Zahra's Blessing: A Ramadan Story
Shirin Shamsi, Manal Mirza, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Captures the essence of Ramadan through a child’s perspective.
Illustrates the importance of family and community during Ramadan.
Encourages empathy, generosity, and gratitude.
Enhances understanding of Islamic culture and traditions.

Zahra's Blessing: A Ramadan Story
Shirin Shamsi, Manal Mirza, 2022
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
The Cool Bean
Jory John, 2019
33 pages
Why to read
Showcases importance of kindness and self-confidence.
Encourages empathy and friendship among peers.
Humorous approach resonates with young readers.
Supports emotional development through engaging storytelling.

The Cool Bean
Jory John, 2019
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
OFF TO GRANDMA'S HOUSE FOR TURKEY DAY: A Thanksgiving Story. Maiya unwillingly goes to Grandma's house for Thanksgiving and realizes the importance of family, love, and time.
Martina Snowden-Harrison, 2021
38 pages
Why to read
Highlights family values and togetherness.
Captivates with engaging storytelling.
Encourages appreciation for family gatherings.
Supports emotional and social development.

OFF TO GRANDMA'S HOUSE FOR TURKEY DAY: A Thanksgiving Story. Maiya unwillingly goes to Grandma's house for Thanksgiving and realizes the importance of family, love, and time.
Martina Snowden-Harrison, 2021
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through storytelling and drawing.
Builds confidence with relatable, problem-solving characters.
Encourages teamwork and collaborative play.
Supports linguistic and artistic development.
