Books like Kozo the Sparrow
Award winning
Erika-San
Allen Say, 2009
32 pages
Why to read
Explores cultural diversity and acceptance.
Inspires resilience and pursuit of dreams.
Encourages exploration and open-mindedness.
Beautiful, engaging illustrations enhance narrative.

Erika-San
Allen Say, 2009
Award winning
Tea with Milk (Rise and Shine)
Allen Say, 1999
32 pages
Why to read
Cross-cultural exploration enriches children’s global understanding.
Captivating illustrations complement the heartfelt narrative.
Encourages adaptability and self-discovery through diverse settings.
Inspires appreciation of heritage and personal identity.

Tea with Milk (Rise and Shine)
Allen Say, 1999
Award winning
Tree of Cranes
Allen Say, 1991
32 pages
Why to read
Captivating blend of Japanese and American holiday traditions.
Beautiful illustrations enhance storytelling and cultural appreciation.
Supports emotional development through themes of family and belonging.
Encourages understanding and celebration of diverse cultures.

Tree of Cranes
Allen Say, 1991
Award winning
The Lost Lake
Allen Say, 1989
32 pages
Why to read
Captures the essence of adventure and discovery.
Illustrates strong bonds between parent and child.
Encourages exploration and appreciation of nature.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations enhance the narrative.

The Lost Lake
Allen Say, 1989
Award winning
This Little Kitty in the Garden
Karen Obuhanych, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages outdoor exploration and curiosity in children.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual perception.
Enhances vocabulary through repetitive and rhythmic patterns.
Supports early learning about nature and animal behavior.

This Little Kitty in the Garden
Karen Obuhanych, 2024
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
Award winning
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
128 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming narrative teaches kindness and friendship values.
Artistic illustrations enhance visual and emotional engagement.
Simple yet profound dialogues support language development.
Encourages empathy and reflection in young readers.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie Mackesy, 2019
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.
