Books like Leeches
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
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and self-acceptance.
Stunning illustrations enhance the storytelling.
Encourages appreciation of one's heritage.
Strengthens self-esteem in young readers.

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
258 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with whimsical, fantastical adventures.
Enhances critical thinking through puzzling scenarios, riddles.
Iconic illustrations by John Tenniel enrich storytelling.
Encourages exploration of identity and self-perception.

The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
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.

Knight Owl
Christopher Denise, 2022
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.

Big Tree
Brian Selznick, 2023
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 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.
