Books like Markus and the Girls
Award winning
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
352 pages
Why to read
Inspires compassion through rescue animal stories.
Highlights importance of responsibility and care.
Encourages empathy and emotional development.
Engaging real-life tales boost reading interest.
Dogtown: Tales of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Redemption
Gennifer Choldenko, Stefan Bechtel, Applegate Katherine, 2023
Award winning
The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Addresses anxiety with engaging, relatable storytelling.
Encourages emotional development and self-soothing techniques.
Supports early literacy with simple, rhythmic text.
Ideal for shared reading, fostering parent-child bonds.
The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
The Accidental Diary of B.U.G.
Jen Carney, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventure, sparks creativity and imagination.
Highlights importance of friendship and acceptance.
Encourages expressive writing and diary keeping.
Lighthearted humor, perfect for engaging young readers.
The Accidental Diary of B.U.G.
Jen Carney, 2021
Award winning
Finding Home
Jessica Fritz, 2021
116 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of belonging and identity.
Encourages empathy and understanding through storytelling.
Supports emotional and social development.
Ideal for family bonding over shared reading.
Finding Home
Jessica Fritz, 2021
Award winning
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience through engaging, relatable storytelling.
Highlights importance of friendship and teamwork.
Encourages understanding and managing personal fears.
Supports emotional and social development.
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
Award winning
Splinters of Sunshine
Andy Stanton, Patrice Lawrence, 2020
32 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fosters emotional and intellectual growth.
Explores themes of resilience and friendship.
Enhances empathy through diverse character experiences.
Encourages exploration of complex emotions and situations.
Splinters of Sunshine
Andy Stanton, Patrice Lawrence, 2020
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
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.
